Lewin's Honeyeater
Meliphaga lewinii
EndemicStatus
CommonRarity
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Species Description
Lewin's Honeyeater is a medium-sized bird commonly found along the east coast of Australia, from Victoria to far north Queensland. Recognisable by its olive-green-grey plumage and crescent-shaped yellow ear patch, this species thrives in rainforests, wet forests, and even gardens with dense native plants. Its presence is often revealed by its loud, rattling call echoing through the foliage.
Fun Facts
Their rattling call can be heard over long distances and is often the first clue to their presence.
1. Crescent-shaped yellow ear patch behind the eye
2. Blue-grey eyes in adults; brown in juveniles
3. Loud, rattling "machine-gun" call
Their diet consists mainly of fruits-especially berries-along with nectar and insects, which they collect from foliage or catch in flight. Lewin's Honeyeaters are usually seen alone or in small, loose groups. Breeding takes place from September to January, with nests built from vegetation and spider web, placed in dense foliage. Both parents care for the young, which fledge about two weeks after hatching. The species is generally resident but may show some local movement in cooler months
Lewin's Honeyeaters inhabit rainforests, wet sclerophyll forests, and sometimes adjacent woodlands along eastern Australia. They are found from coastal lowlands to mountain forests, and often visit parks and gardens with native vegetation. These birds are mostly sedentary but may move to lower elevations during winter. Listen for their distinctive calls, especially at dawn and dusk.
Physical Attributes
Height
21 cm
Size Relative to Other Birds44%
Habitat
No habitat information available
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