The silver-eared honeyeater is a species of bird in the family Meliphagidae. It is found in New Guinea. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical mangrove forests.
Region
New Guinea
Typical Environment
Occurs mainly in coastal and estuarine mangrove forests, especially along tidal creeks, deltas, and sheltered bays. It also uses adjacent pandanus stands, beach scrub, and coastal woodland edges where flowering shrubs and trees are abundant. Birds occasionally venture into nearby village gardens and plantations near the coast. The species tracks seasonal flowering within mangroves and will range locally to exploit blooms.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This New Guinea honeyeater is closely tied to coastal mangrove habitats and is often one of the most conspicuous nectar-feeders there. Its bright silvery-white ear patch contrasts with a dusky face, making it easy to pick out among mangrove foliage. It frequently defends flowering trees from other nectar feeders and supplements nectar with small insects. The species is considered secure where mangroves remain intact.
Temperament
active and moderately territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick dashes between perches
Social Behavior
Often seen singly or in pairs, and in small family groups when food is plentiful. It defends rich nectar sources but may join mixed-species foraging flocks along mangrove edges. The nest is a small, suspended cup placed in low vegetation near water. Both adults participate in rearing the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A mix of thin whistles, metallic chinks, and chattering phrases delivered from exposed perches. Calls accelerate when chasing intruders from flowering trees.
