Dusky Myzomela

Overview

The dusky myzomela or dusky honeyeater is a small, brown bird that is a common resident of the Aru Islands, southern New Guinea, and northern and eastern Australia. It is a species that can be sedentary in attractive areas but may become nomadic or migratory in less suitable districts, particularly in the southern part of its range.

Identification

• Around 12 to 15 cm long with dull-coloured plumage.
• Active and fast-moving, often observed hovering to take insects or nectar from flowers in the upper storey.

Habitat

It inhabits a wide range of habitat types, including monsoonal forests and scrubs, woodlands, swamps, and almost any area near water. Its range covers the Aru Islands, southern New Guinea, and northern and eastern Australia, though the species is rare south of Rockhampton.

Diet

This species forages in the upper storey, often hovering to consume insects and nectar from flowers.

Did you know?

The bird normally constructs a small, neat cup nest out of fine bark, spiderwebs, and leaves, which it places on a well-hidden branch high over water.