The black-headed honeyeater is a species of bird in the family Meliphagidae. It is one of two members of the genus Melithreptus endemic to Tasmania. Its natural habitats are temperate forest and Mediterranean-type shrubby vegetation. Despite its name, the black-headed honeyeater eats predominantly insects.
Region
Tasmania and Bass Strait Islands
Typical Environment
Occurs throughout much of Tasmania, including offshore islands, in temperate eucalypt forests and woodlands. It frequents both wet and dry sclerophyll forests, coastal scrub, and heathlands, and will visit parks and gardens where native trees are present. The species forages primarily in the mid to upper canopy, often moving rapidly through foliage. It tolerates a mosaic of natural and modified habitats provided mature trees are available.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Endemic to Tasmania, this small honeyeater spends much of its time in the canopy, often joining mixed-species foraging flocks. Despite its name, it feeds mainly on insects and lerps, with nectar playing a secondary role. It is commonly confused with the strong-billed honeyeater but has a finer bill and a clean black hood with a distinct white nape crescent.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick, undulating dashes between trees
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small groups, often joining mixed-species flocks of canopy-feeding birds. Nests are typically cup-shaped and placed high in foliage; both parents attend young. Territorial during breeding but otherwise relatively tolerant of conspecifics.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A fast series of thin, twittering notes interspersed with sharp chips. Calls include soft contact notes used to keep groups together and harsher scolds when alarmed.
