The scarlet-headed flowerpecker is a bird species in the family of Dicaeidae. It is a species endemic to Indonesia. This flowerpecker inhabits a few islands of the archipelago of Indonesia. It is mainly observed in open wooden areas, gardens, and mangroves.
Region
Sunda Islands
Typical Environment
Endemic to parts of Indonesia, chiefly Java, Bali, and nearby small islands. It favors open woodlands, forest edges, coastal scrub, gardens, plantations, and mangroves. The species adapts well to secondary growth and urban green spaces where fruiting and flowering trees are available. It is most often encountered in lowlands but can occur on lower montane slopes.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This tiny flowerpecker is famed for the male’s blazing scarlet plumage, making it one of the most striking small birds of Java and Bali. It readily uses human-altered habitats such as gardens and coconut groves. By swallowing mistletoe berries whole and passing the seeds, it plays a key role in seed dispersal. Its sharp, high-pitched calls often reveal its presence before it is seen.
Temperament
active and restless
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, occasionally joining mixed-species flocks in fruiting trees. Pairs maintain small feeding territories in suitable habitat. The nest is a small, purse-like structure suspended from foliage, bound with plant fibers and spider silk, and typically holds two eggs.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives thin, high-pitched tsit and tsee notes, often repeated in quick series. Song is a rapid, tinkling trill with buzzy elements, carrying well from canopy perches.
