Flame-eared honeyeater

The flame-eared honeyeater, also known as the yellow-eared honeyeater, is a species of bird in the family Meliphagidae. It is found on Timor island. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest and subtropical or tropical moist montane forest.

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Distribution

Region

Lesser Sunda Islands

Typical Environment

Occurs across Timor Island in both lowland and montane zones. It occupies tropical moist forests, forest edges, and secondary growth, and often ventures into wooded gardens and plantations with flowering trees. The species forages from understory to canopy and is tolerant of disturbed habitats as long as nectar sources and insect prey are available. It is frequently associated with seasonally flowering trees along ridges and valleys.

Altitude Range

0–2000 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size12–15 cm

Wing Span18–22 cm

Male Weight0.014 kg

Female Weight0.013 kg

Life Expectancy6 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

Also called the yellow-eared honeyeater, it is a Timor Island endemic in the honeyeater family Meliphagidae. The vivid yellow 'ear' patch that inspires its common name is actually a bright auricular area of feathers used in visual signaling. It readily visits flowering trees and shrubs and often defends rich nectar sources from other birds. Its adaptability to forest edges and secondary growth helps keep it relatively secure.

Gallery

Behaviour

Temperament

active and alert

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats

Social Behavior

Often seen singly, in pairs, or in small loose groups, especially around flowering trees. It can be territorial at rich nectar sources, chasing intruders. The nest is a small, suspended cup placed in shrubs or trees, with breeding likely timed to periods of peak flower and insect availability.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Vocalizations include sharp, squeaky chips and chatters interspersed with thin, liquid warbles. Phrases are repeated irregularly and become more persistent around favored feeding sites.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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Flame-fronted barbet

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Flame-templed babbler

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Flame-throated bulbul

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