The spiny-cheeked honeyeater is the only species in the genus Acanthagenys. It is large for a honeyeater, ranging from 22 to 27 centimeters tall and weighing around 52 grams. The birds are sociable, aggressive, and often observed foraging in large flocks.
Region
Australia
Typical Environment
Occurs across much of inland and southern Australia, especially in arid and semi-arid zones. It frequents mallee and mulga woodlands, chenopod and acacia shrublands, open eucalypt woodland, and coastal heaths in drier regions. The species also uses farmland shelterbelts, town parks, and gardens where nectar and fruit are available. It is scarce in the wettest coastal areas and in dense rainforest.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The spiny-cheeked honeyeater is the sole member of the genus Acanthagenys and is large for a honeyeater. Highly sociable and assertive, it often forms noisy flocks that roam widely in search of flowering trees and fruiting shrubs. It readily visits gardens and can dominate nectar sources, but also helps control insects.
Spiny-cheeked honeyeater
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often found in small to large flocks that move between flowering trees and shrubs. Pairs nest in shrubs or small trees, building a neat cup; both sexes incubate and feed the young. They aggressively defend rich nectar sources from other honeyeaters and small birds.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A varied, loud series of warbles, chuckles, and mewing notes delivered in phrases. Calls are far-carrying and frequently given during foraging and territorial interactions.
Plumage
Grey-brown upperparts with fine streaking and paler, lightly scaled underparts; throat shows a distinct rufous patch. The cheeks have stiff, bristle-like feathers giving a spiny appearance. Long slightly decurved bill and white-tipped tail are often conspicuous.
Diet
Takes nectar from eucalypts, grevilleas, and other flowering shrubs, and consumes a wide range of soft fruits including native mistletoes. Also gleans and hawks insects and other small arthropods, especially when feeding young. Will sip honeydew and visit garden feeders with sugary solutions.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in flowering eucalypt canopies, in grevillea and banksia thickets, and among fruiting shrubs and trees. Also forages at edges of woodlands, along creeks with flowering vegetation, and in gardens and orchards.
