The Kadavu honeyeater is a species of bird in the family Meliphagidae. It is the only species placed in the genus Meliphacator. It is endemic to the islands of Kadavu in Fiji. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests and tropical mangrove forests.
Region
South Pacific
Typical Environment
Endemic to the Kadavu Group in southern Fiji, occurring on Kadavu and nearby Ono. It inhabits tropical moist lowland forest, secondary forest edges, plantations with tall flowering trees, and coastal mangrove stands. The species forages from understory to canopy, often along forest margins and riverine strips. It may also visit village gardens and coconut groves when flowering resources are abundant.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 700 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Kadavu honeyeater is the sole member of the genus Meliphacator and is confined to the Kadavu archipelago of Fiji. It frequents flowering trees and mangroves, where it takes nectar and small arthropods with a decurved bill. Its loud, chattering calls often reveal its presence before it is seen. Despite its small range, it remains fairly common in suitable habitat.
Temperament
active and moderately territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between perches
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups, often following flowering trees. Pairs maintain small territories during breeding and may join loose mixed-species flocks when not nesting. The nest is a small cup placed in foliage, with both parents attending the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A loud, chattering series of harsh notes interspersed with clear whistles. Calls carry well through forest and mangroves, often given from exposed perches.
