The sooty myzomela is a species of bird in the family Meliphagidae. It is endemic to Makira.
Region
Solomon Islands
Typical Environment
Occurs in forested habitats on Makira, using lowland and hill rainforests, forest edges, secondary growth, and village gardens with flowering shrubs and trees. It forages from the understory to the canopy and readily visits nectar-rich blossoms. The species tolerates some habitat disturbance where flowering resources are available. Nesting typically occurs within sheltered forks or foliage near reliable nectar sources.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The sooty myzomela is a small honeyeater with a slender, curved bill adapted for sipping nectar from flowers. It is active and agile, often defending flowering trees from other nectar-feeders. Although primarily a nectar specialist, it also takes small insects for protein, especially during breeding. Its uniformly dark, sooty plumage provides excellent camouflage in shaded forest canopies.
Temperament
active and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs, sometimes in small loose groups at abundant bloom. Pairs defend flowering trees and shrubs from other nectar-feeders. Cup-shaped nests are placed in foliage, bound with plant fibers and spider silk, and both parents tend the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives thin, high-pitched twitters and sharp chips, often delivered while foraging. Song sequences are quick and buzzy, interspersed with soft scolding notes.
Plumage
Mostly uniform sooty to dark chocolate plumage; males appear blackish while females can be slightly browner with subtle lighter edging.
Diet
Feeds primarily on nectar from a variety of native and cultivated flowering plants, using its curved bill and brush-tipped tongue. Supplements its diet with small insects and spiders gleaned from foliage and flowers. In the breeding season it increases insect intake to meet protein demands. It may also sip sap or take small fruits opportunistically.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the canopy and midstory of forest and edge habitats, and frequently visits gardens with flowering trees. Often concentrates at mass-flowering events and defends rich nectar sources.
