Brown-headed Honeyeater
Melithreptus brevirostris
EndemicStatus
CommonRarity
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Species Description
The Brown-headed Honeyeater is a small, energetic Australian bird recognised by its plain brown head and subtle, olive-green upperparts. Its pale, creamy-yellow eye-ring and buff crescent across the nape provide a unique facial pattern. This species is often seen foraging in the treetops and is more often heard than seen, thanks to its soft, chattering calls.
Fun Facts
Brown-headed Honeyeaters often huddle together at night, with mature birds on the outside and young birds in the middle for warmth.
1. Brown cap with a creamy-yellow or orange eye-ring
2. Buff crescent band across the nape
3. Juveniles show blue eye-rings and yellow-orange bills
Their diet consists mainly of insects and spiders, supplemented by nectar and sugary plant secretions like manna and honeydew. Brown-headed Honeyeaters forage mostly in the upper foliage, often probing bark for insects. They are social, often traveling in family groups or small flocks, and may form larger groups in winter. Breeding typically occurs from late winter to mid-summer, with nests built high in eucalypts. Cooperative breeding is common, with helpers assisting the breeding pair`.` The Brown-headed Honeyeater is an important part of Australian woodland ecosystems, helping control insect populations and contributing to pollination.
Brown-headed Honeyeaters are found across southern and eastern Australia, including regions of Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, and into Western Australia. They favour eucalypt forests and woodlands, especially areas with mature trees and shrubby understories. These birds are most often spotted in the canopy, moving in small, vocal groups, and can use isolated trees and corridors to travel between habitats
Physical Attributes
Height
14 cm
Size Relative to Other Birds16%
Habitat
No habitat information available
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