Black-eared Miner
Manorina melanotis
EndemicStatus
RareRarity
Bird Gallery
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Species Description
The Black-eared Miner is a rare, medium-sized honeyeater found only in a few areas of southeastern Australia, where it inhabits mature, unburnt mallee woodland. Endemic to this region, it is listed as endangered and is one of Australia’s rarest birds, with only a few hundred pure individuals estimated to remain in the wild. The species is recognised by its predomitly grey plumage, distinctive black facial mask.
Fun Facts
Black-eared Miners are so territorial they will aggressively chase away almost any intruder from their colony’s space.
1. Entirely black cheek patch without silver flecks (unlike the Yellow-throated Miner)
2. Darker moustache compared to the throat area
3. Bright yellow bill and legs, and a yellow patch of bare skin near the eye
Black-eared Miners are restricted to mature, long-unburnt mallee eucalypt woodland, typically more than 4 years since last fire, with a shrubby understorey and spinifex ground layer. They are found in northwestern Victoria and southeastern South Australia, with the largest populations in the Riverland Mallee, Murray-Sunset National Park, and other conservation reserves. They are usually at least 2 km from clearings and prefer intact habitat blocks. The best chance of seeing them is at dawn, when they are most active and defend their territories.
Physical Attributes
Height
25 cm
Size Relative to Other Birds57%
Top Locations
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