The grey-fronted honeyeater is a species of bird in the family Meliphagidae. It is endemic to Australia. Its natural habitat is Mediterranean-type shrubby vegetation. The grey-fronted honeyeater was originally described in 1841 by English ornithologist John Gould as Lichenostomus plumulus. It was moved to the genus Ptilotula after a molecular phylogenetic analysis, published in 2011, showed that Lichenostomus was polyphyletic.
Region
Southern and central Australia
Typical Environment
Found across arid to semi-arid inland regions, especially in mallee and acacia shrublands, eucalypt woodlands, and around rocky ranges. It frequents Mediterranean-type scrub in the south as well as drier inland habitats where flowering shrubs and trees are available. The species often uses creeklines, gullies, and stony hillsides with scattered eucalypts and native shrubs. It may shift locally to track blossoming eucalypts, eremophilas, and grevilleas.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The grey-fronted honeyeater is a small, active member of the Meliphagidae, often seen darting through flowering shrubs and eucalypts. It was moved from Lichenostomus to Ptilotula after genetic studies revealed the former genus was polyphyletic. This species readily follows flowering events and can become quite vocal and assertive around nectar sources. Its subtle grey forehead and small yellow ear plumes help separate it from similar honeyeaters.
Temperament
active and somewhat assertive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile, darting movements
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs or small groups and may join mixed-species foraging parties. It is territorial around rich nectar sources, with both sexes defending flowering trees and shrubs. Breeding pairs build a small cup nest low to mid-level in dense shrubs or foliage, and both parents typically feed the young.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A lively series of chattering notes and metallic tinkling phrases, interspersed with scolds. Calls are frequently given while foraging and during territorial disputes, becoming more persistent in the breeding season.
Plumage
Olive-brown upperparts with a grey-washed face and forehead, paler grey to whitish underparts, and fine streaking on the breast. Subtle yellow feather tufts (plumes) at the rear of the ear coverts and faint yellow edges to the wings and tail. A dark, narrow malar stripe contrasts with the paler throat.
Diet
Feeds primarily on nectar from eucalypts, eremophilas, and grevilleas, supplemented heavily with insects and spiders. It also takes lerps, honeydew, and occasionally small fruits. Foraging involves probing flowers, gleaning insects from foliage and bark, and occasional short sallies to catch flying insects.
Preferred Environment
Most often forages in flowering eucalypt canopies and mid-story shrubs in mallee and acacia scrub. It also works along creeklines, rocky slopes, and open woodland edges where nectar resources are concentrated.
