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Overview
Long-bearded honeyeater

Long-bearded honeyeater

Wikipedia

The long-bearded honeyeater, is a bird in the honeyeater family Meliphagidae.

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Distribution

Region

New Guinea Highlands

Typical Environment

Occurs in montane forest, forest edge, and shrubby secondary growth, where flowering plants are abundant. It frequently visits canopy and midstory blossoms as well as tangles at forest margins. The species adapts to disturbed highland habitats provided nectar sources remain, and may also glean insects from foliage. It is generally associated with cooler, moist mountain environments.

Altitude Range

1200–3000 m

Climate Zone

Highland

Characteristics

Size22–26 cm
Wing Span30–36 cm
Male Weight0.06 kg
Female Weight0.055 kg
Life Expectancy7 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

The long-bearded honeyeater is a New Guinea mountain bird in the honeyeater family (Meliphagidae), notable for the distinctive whitish, beard-like chin feathers that give it its name. It forages actively for nectar and small invertebrates, often at forest edges and flowering shrubs. Its vocalizations are loud and scolding, typical of New Guinea meliphagids.

Behaviour

Temperament

active and vocal

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats

Social Behavior

Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks around flowering trees. Nests are likely cup-shaped and placed in dense vegetation typical of honeyeaters. Territorial behavior increases when rich nectar sources are defended.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Calls are sharp, scolding chatters and rasping notes interspersed with clearer whistles. Vocalizations carry well across forest edges and are used to communicate and advertise territories.

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