The cardinal myzomela a species of passerine bird in the honeyeater family Meliphagidae. It is named for the scarlet color of the male. It is found in New Caledonia, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest and subtropical or tropical mangrove forest. It frequents areas with flowers, such as gardens. This is a small, active bird, measuring about 13 cm (5.1 in) from bill to tail. Males are red and black in coloration, females are grayish-olive, sometimes with a red cap or red head. Its long, curved bill is especially adapted for reaching into flowers for nectar. It has sometimes been considered as conspecific with the Samoan myzomela.
Region
Melanesia and the Southwest Pacific
Typical Environment
Occurs on multiple islands including New Caledonia, the Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu, where it is common in lowland to foothill zones. It inhabits tropical moist forests, mangroves, secondary growth, forest edges, and plantations. The species frequently enters villages and gardens to exploit nectar-rich ornamentals. It is generally absent from dense, unbroken montane forest but uses edges and clearings. Its presence is closely tied to the availability of flowering shrubs and trees.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This small honeyeater is named for the vivid scarlet plumage of the male and plays an important role as a pollinator of island flora. It readily visits flowering trees and garden shrubs and often adapts well to human-modified habitats. Females are much duller, which helps them remain inconspicuous at the nest. It has at times been treated as conspecific with the Samoan myzomela.
Temperament
active and alert
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often seen singly, in pairs, or small loose groups around flowering trees. Males can be territorial at rich nectar sources. The nest is a small cup placed in a fork or suspended from a slender branch. Both parents typically attend the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a thin, sweet series of high-pitched notes interspersed with soft warbles. Calls include sharp chips and buzzy contact notes given while foraging among blossoms.
