Tagula honeyeater

Overview

Wikipedia

The Tagula honeyeater is a species of bird in the family Meliphagidae. It is endemic to Tagula Island.

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Distribution

Region

Louisiade Archipelago, Papua New Guinea

Typical Environment

Occurs only on Tagula (Sudest) Island, occupying lowland to foothill forests. It uses primary rainforest, secondary growth, forest edges, and occasionally gardens with flowering shrubs and trees. The species forages from understory to canopy, favoring areas with abundant blossoms. It will also exploit edge habitats and riparian corridors when nectar sources are available.

Altitude Range

0–900 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size15–18 cm

Wing Span22–27 cm

Male Weight0.022 kg

Female Weight0.02 kg

Life Expectancy6 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

Endemic to Tagula (Sudest) Island in the Louisiade Archipelago of Papua New Guinea, this honeyeater is part of the Meliphagidae family. It frequently visits flowering trees and likely serves as an important local pollinator. Taxonomically it has been placed in or near the Meliphaga/Microptilotis complex, and resembles several olive honeyeaters found in New Guinea and Australia. Its soft, piping calls often reveal its presence before it is seen in the foliage.

Behaviour

Temperament

alert and active, somewhat shy

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats

Social Behavior

Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups, and it may join mixed-species flocks when trees are flowering. Territorial around rich nectar sources, with brief chases to exclude intruders. Nesting is presumed to involve a small cup nest placed in shrubs or trees, as in related honeyeaters.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Vocalizations include soft, high-pitched piping notes interspersed with short chattering phrases. Calls are often delivered from within foliage and can be repetitive, serving to maintain contact between mates or family groups.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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