White-cheeked Honeyeater

1. Large, triangular white cheek patch on a mostly black head

2. White underparts with bold black streaking across the breast

3. Bright yellow panels on wings and tail visible in flight

This species feeds primarily on nectar from a wide range of native plants, including banksias, grevilleas, and eucalypts, but also supplements its diet with insects and spiders, which it catches on the wing or gleans from foliage. White-cheeked Honeyeaters are highly active, often seen darting between flowers or hanging upside down to access nectar. They are territorial, especially during breeding, and will defend their feeding and nesting areas vigorously. Breeding can occur at any time of year when nectar is abundant, but peaks from late winter to spring. Nests are cup-shaped and placed low in dense vegetation, with both parents feeding the young.

White-cheeked Honeyeaters inhabit coastal and near-coastal heathlands, woodlands, and forests across eastern Australia (from northern Queensland to South Australia, including Tasmania) and in the southwest of Western Australia. They are most often found in areas with abundant flowering plants, especially banksias and grevilleas, and are also common in parks and gardens with native plantings. These birds are generally sedentary, maintaining territories year-round, and are especially active and vocal during winter and spring when nectar sources peak.