Bridled Honeyeater

1. Bright yellow base to the bill stands out against dark plumage.

2. White curved "bridle" marking and white spot above the eye.

3. Small patch of bare orange skin behind the eye

Bridled Honeyeaters change their diet with the seasons, feeding mainly on nectar during the dry months and switching to insects in the wet season. They forage actively in the canopy, probing flowers and searching foliage for food. Breeding takes place from September to December. Nests are cup-shaped and well-hidden in dense vegetation. During major flowering events, these honeyeaters can become quite social and vocal, gathering in groups at favoured trees.

This species is endemic to the Wet Tropics of northeastern Queensland, ranging from Mount Amos south of Cooktown to the Paluma Range near Townsville. It is most common in upland rainforests above 600 meters, but during winter, some birds move to lower elevations and can be found in towns and gardens. The best places to see them are high-altitude sites like the Atherton Tablelands and Paluma Range National Park, especially around flowering trees in the early morning.