The puff-backed honeyeater is a species of bird in the family Meliphagidae. It is widely spread throughout New Guinea. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests and subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.
Region
New Guinea
Typical Environment
Occurs widely across New Guinea, from lowland rainforests to foothill and lower montane forests. It uses primary forest, forest edge, riverine corridors, and well-wooded secondary growth. The species also ventures into gardens and disturbed habitats with flowering shrubs and trees. It is typically most common in the mid-canopy and along edges where blossoms and insects are abundant.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Named for its habit of fluffing the upper back feathers when excited or alarmed, giving a distinctive 'puffed' look. It frequents flowering trees and often joins mixed-species flocks while foraging. Its presence is a good indicator of intact lowland and foothill rainforest edges and secondary growth.
Temperament
active and alert
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile, darting movements between perches
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups, and commonly joins mixed-species foraging flocks. Breeding pairs maintain small territories during the nesting period. A cup-shaped nest is placed in foliage, with both adults attending the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are a series of sharp chips, chatter, and thin whistles delivered from mid-canopy perches. Calls accelerate when the bird is excited or when interacting within mixed flocks.
Plumage
Mostly olive-brown above with paler, lightly streaked underparts; feathers of the upper back can be fluffed to form a noticeable 'puff'. Subtle pale ear area and a slightly paler throat are typical, with a soft, sleek texture overall.
Diet
Takes nectar from a variety of native blossoms, probing with its slightly decurved bill. Also hawks and gleans small insects and spiders from foliage and bark. Will occasionally consume soft fruits and honeydew when available.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in the mid to upper canopy at flowering trees, along forest edges, and in secondary growth. Frequently forages along riparian zones and in edges of village gardens with suitable blooms.
