The crimson-rumped myzomela or yellow-vented myzomela, is a species of bird in the family Meliphagidae. It is endemic to the Western Province.
Region
Southwest Pacific (Solomon Islands)
Typical Environment
Occurs on several islands of the Western Province, especially within the New Georgia group. Favors lowland and foothill forests, forest edges, secondary growth, and village gardens with flowering trees. It also uses coastal habitats, including coconut groves and mangroves, where nectar sources are abundant. The species is tolerant of moderate habitat modification as long as blossoms and insect prey are available.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known as the yellow-vented myzomela, this tiny honeyeater is confined to islands of the Western Province in the Solomon Islands. Males show a striking crimson rump contrasted with a yellow vent, which they flaunt while foraging among blossoms. They are important pollinators of native flowering trees and shrubs. Agile and inquisitive, they often hover briefly to sip nectar.
Temperament
active and mildly territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief hovering at flowers
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or loose small groups at flowering trees. Defends rich nectar sources against other small honeyeaters. Cup-shaped nest is placed low to mid-canopy; both parents attend the young. Breeding coincides with peaks in flowering.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
High, thin tinkling notes interspersed with quick twittering phrases. Contact calls are sharp tsip or tseet notes given while foraging. Song is delivered from exposed perches near flowering trees.
Plumage
Male is mostly dark with a glossy black head and upperparts, contrasting with a vivid crimson lower back and rump and a yellow-washed vent; underparts duskier. Female is duller olive-brown above with paler grayish underparts and a subtle yellow vent; rump shows a reduced reddish wash. Both sexes have fine, sleek plumage suited to agile foraging.
Diet
Primarily takes nectar from a variety of native and introduced blossoms, including Syzygium, hibiscus, and coconut flowers. Supplements nectar with small arthropods gleaned from foliage, bark, and flower clusters. Occasionally consumes soft fruits or berries when available. Acts as a pollinator while probing flowers.
Preferred Environment
Feeds along forest edges, secondary growth, village gardens, and coastal groves where flowering plants are concentrated. Often forages in the mid to upper canopy but will come low to garden shrubs.
