Data Zone
Justification of Red List category
This species is restricted to a single very small island. Recent estimates suggest the population size may be much greater than was previously thought. The species is therefore classified as Least Concern.
Population justification
This is a poorly known species and the population size has not been quantified. A crude estimate puts the population at 30,000-50,000 pairs (Trainor et al. 2009).
Trend justification
The species is suspected to be stable in the absence of evidence for any declines or substantial threats.
This species is restricted to Wetar, Indonesia. Although never abundant, it was recorded at most forest sites in a recent survey of the island (Trainor et al. 2009).
This species occurs in most forest types, preferring the forest edge and dry forest. It feeds mainly on figs (Trainor et al. 2009).
Extensive forest remains on Wetar, but deforestation may have increased in recent decades, with illegal logging and gold and copper mining operations threatening to affect remaining habitats, as well as on-going pressure from agriculture and road building (Trainor et al. 2009).
Conservation and Research Actions Underway
No targeted conservation actions are known for this species.
Conservation and Research Actions Proposed
Conduct repeated surveys within its range to determine current distribution and abundance, as well as assess population trends and rates of habitat loss. Conduct ecological studies to improve understanding of its precise habitat requirements, tolerance of secondary habitats and response to fragmentation. Campaign for the protection of remaining tracts of lowland woodland on Wetar.
Text account compilers
Gilroy, J., Ashpole, J, Hermes, C., Benstead, P., Khwaja, N., Taylor, J.
Recommended citation
BirdLife International (2024) Species factsheet: Wetar Figbird Sphecotheres hypoleucus. Downloaded from
https://datazone.birdlife.org/species/factsheet/wetar-figbird-sphecotheres-hypoleucus on 19/12/2024.
Recommended citation for factsheets for more than one species: BirdLife International (2024) IUCN Red List for birds. Downloaded from
https://datazone.birdlife.org/species/search on 19/12/2024.