The Micronesian myzomela is a species of bird in the honeyeater family Meliphagidae. The species forms a superspecies with a number of related and similar looking island and mainland myzomelas across the Pacific and Australasia. It in turn is composed of seven insular subspecies.
Region
Micronesia and the western Pacific islands
Typical Environment
Occurs on many islands across the Marianas, Carolines, Palau, and Marshall Islands, inhabiting tropical lowland forests, secondary growth, coastal scrub, and mangroves. It adapts well to human-modified habitats and is frequently seen in gardens, coconut groves, and village edges. The species forages from understory to canopy and often concentrates where flowers are abundant. It has been lost from Guam due to predation by invasive snakes but remains widespread elsewhere in its range.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A small honeyeater, the Micronesian myzomela is an important pollinator of many native island plants and readily visits flowering trees in villages and gardens. It forms a superspecies with several closely related myzomelas across the Pacific and comprises multiple insular subspecies. The species remains common on many islands but was extirpated on Guam after the introduction of the brown tree snake.
Temperament
active and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with fast, direct flights between flowering trees
Social Behavior
Often seen singly or in pairs, but may gather loosely at rich nectar sources. Males defend flowering shrubs and trees with brief chases. Nests are small cup structures placed in forks or suspended from fine branches; breeding can occur at various times of year depending on flower availability.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A high, thin series of twitters and tinkling notes, interspersed with sharp chips. Calls are quick and nasal, delivered frequently while foraging.
Plumage
Male is bright crimson to scarlet on the head and body with contrasting black wings and tail; female is duller olive-brown with paler underparts and a faint reddish wash on the face or throat. Both sexes have sleek, close-fitting plumage suited to agile foraging among flowers.
Diet
Primarily feeds on nectar from a variety of native and introduced flowering plants, including coastal and garden species. Also takes small insects and spiders gleaned from foliage or captured in short sallies. Occasionally consumes soft fruits and honeydew, especially when flowers are scarce.
Preferred Environment
Forages in forest edges, mangroves, coastal scrub, and village gardens, where flowering trees and shrubs are abundant. Often works the mid-story to canopy, probing blossoms and moving rapidly between blooms.
