The New Holland honeyeater is a honeyeater species found throughout southern Australia. It was among the first birds to be scientifically described in Australia, and was initially named Certhia novaehollandiae.
Region
Southern Australia and Tasmania
Typical Environment
This species occupies coastal and near-coastal heathlands, shrublands, open forests, and woodland edges across southern Australia and Tasmania. It frequents areas with abundant flowering shrubs and trees, especially Banksia, Grevillea, Melaleuca, and eucalypts. It readily adapts to urban parks and gardens where nectar-rich plantings are available. It is scarce or absent in dense rainforests and in the arid interior, but commonly follows flowering events across suitable habitats.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The New Holland honeyeater is an energetic, vocal nectar-feeder that plays a key role in pollinating Australian plants such as Banksia, Grevillea, and eucalypts. It is highly territorial around rich flower sources and will vigorously chase other birds. Recognizable by its bold black-and-white patterning, yellow wing flashes, and pale iris, it is a common sight in southern Australian gardens and coastal heath.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs or small, noisy groups and forms loose feeding aggregations at flowering plants. Strongly territorial around nectar sources, frequently chasing other honeyeaters. Builds a cup-shaped nest low in dense shrubs; both adults help defend the nesting area.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A lively series of sharp chits, twitters, and repeated tch-tch calls, often delivered in rapid bursts. Alarm calls are harsh and scolding, and groups readily engage in loud mobbing of predators.
