The ruby-throated myzomela or red-throated myzomela is a species of bird in the family Meliphagidae. It is found in New Guinea. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests.
Region
New Guinea and adjacent islands
Typical Environment
Occurs widely across New Guinea in subtropical and tropical moist lowland and foothill forests, including forest edges and secondary growth. It readily visits flowering trees in village gardens, coconut groves, and disturbed habitats. The species often forages high in the canopy but will descend to mid-storey when flowers are abundant. It also uses riverine forest and mangroves where suitable nectar sources are present.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This tiny honeyeater is noted for the male’s brilliant ruby-red throat, which it uses in display while defending nectar-rich flowers. It is an active, fast-moving canopy forager and a frequent visitor to village gardens. By transferring pollen between blossoms, it serves as an important pollinator in New Guinea’s lowland forests. Females are much duller and can be tricky to identify without the male nearby.
Temperament
active and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with darting, agile movements
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, with males vigorously defending flowering trees or shrubs. Forms loose associations at abundant nectar sources and sometimes joins mixed-species flocks. Builds a small, neat cup nest suspended in a fork or on a thin branch; both parents participate in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
High, thin tinkling notes interspersed with soft warbles and buzzy chips. Calls are sharp and rapid when agitated, with a sweet twittering song during display and foraging.
Plumage
Male with a vivid ruby-red throat and forecrown contrasting with darker, dusky to blackish upperparts and paler underparts; sleek, close-fitting feathers. Female is duller brown-olive above with a pale, lightly washed throat and off-white to buff underparts.
Diet
Primarily feeds on nectar from a variety of native and introduced flowering trees and shrubs. Also takes small insects and spiders gleaned from foliage or hawked in short sallies, providing essential protein. Occasional consumption of small fruits or honeydew may occur when available. Its nectar-feeding behavior contributes to pollination of many forest plants.
Preferred Environment
Forages mostly in the canopy and mid-storey of lowland forests, forest edges, and secondary growth. Frequently visits flowering trees in gardens, plantations, and along rivers and mangroves. Often concentrates at seasonal blooms.
