The Halmahera flowerpecker is a species of bird in the family Dicaeidae. It is native to North Maluku, Indonesia. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest and subtropical or tropical moist montane forest. It was recently considered conspecific with the Buru flowerpecker.
Region
Wallacea (North Maluku)
Typical Environment
Occurs on Halmahera and nearby islets in North Maluku, Indonesia. It inhabits primary and secondary moist forests, forest edges, and sometimes well-wooded gardens. The species forages mainly in the mid- to upper canopy, moving quickly among fruiting trees and mistletoes. It tolerates some habitat disturbance provided fruiting shrubs and epiphytes remain. Montane forests are used locally where suitable.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Halmahera flowerpecker is a tiny canopy bird of North Maluku’s forests, specializing on mistletoe and other small fruits. It was recently split from the Buru flowerpecker, reflecting subtle differences in plumage and vocalizations. Like many flowerpeckers, it plays an important role in seed dispersal. It is typically unobtrusive, more often detected by its thin, high-pitched calls than by prolonged views.
Temperament
active and wary
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or in small loose groups following fruiting trees. Likely monogamous with cup- or purse-like nests suspended from fine twigs or foliage, as in other flowerpeckers. Often joins mixed-species flocks in the canopy during foraging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives thin, high-pitched tseep and tsee notes, often in short series. Song is a simple, tinkling sequence of high, sibilant notes delivered from the canopy.
