Blue-faced Honeyeater

1. Bright blue facial skin in adults; yellow-green in juveniles.

2. Contrasting black head and throat, white nape, and olive-green back.

3. Frequently seen in noisy groups, sometimes squabbling with other birds

These honeyeaters feed mostly on insects and other invertebrates, but also consume nectar and fruit. They forage actively in pairs or small flocks, often excluding other birds from feeding areas, though sometimes joining mixed-species flocks. Blue-faced Honeyeaters are known for their aggressive and inquisitive nature, occasionally taking small lizards as prey. Breeding occurs from June to January, with nests often built in the forks of trees or by renovating old babbler nests. Both parents, and sometimes helper birds, care for the young.

Blue-faced Honeyeaters are widespread across northern and eastern Australia, from the Kimberley region through the Top End, Queensland, and into Victoria and southeastern South Australia. They also occur in southern New Guinea. Preferred habitats include open woodlands, riverine forests, mangroves, and urban parks and gardens. They are especially common where flowering trees are abundant. Early morning is a good time to spot them, as they are among the first birds to call at dawn.