Midget Flowerpecker

Overview

The midget flowerpecker (Dicaeum aeneum) is a small, non-migratory bird in the family Dicaeidae, endemic to the Solomon Islands archipelago. It is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List and is considered a stable species within its limited range.

Identification

• Males measure approximately 8 cm in length and weigh 7.1 to 8.8 g, featuring a light grey head, throat, and breast with a dark grey crown and upper parts that have blue hues.
• A distinct bright red patch on the center breast contrasts sharply with the bird's white upper throat, lower abdomen, and undertail, while the flanks are yellow.
• Females lack the vibrant red breast patch and instead possess green flanks, sharing the same general body shape and coloration otherwise.
• The species produces a short, high-pitched 'tik-tik-tik' call that may develop into a trisyllabic twitter or resemble the sound of a snapping twig.

Habitat

Restricted to the Solomon Islands in the western South Pacific Ocean, this species inhabits subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, mangrove forests, and moist montane forests. It prefers high mountains and forests but can also be found in lower forest regions, remaining year-round as it does not migrate.

Diet

The midget flowerpecker feeds on insects and fruits, with recorded local prey including the painted grasshawk, pacific giant centipede, and fiery skimmer, as well as fruits such as carambola, pawpaw, and golden apple. It forages in groups and hovers while feeding.

Did you know?

Although the species was first recorded in 1900, there are currently only 312 documented observations of the bird, most of which occur in pairs or small groups.