The Wakolo myzomela is a species of bird in the family Meliphagidae. It is endemic to Indonesia, where it occurs in the Moluccan Islands of Buru and Seram. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, subtropical or tropical mangrove forests, and subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.
Region
Maluku Islands
Typical Environment
Occurs on the Moluccan islands of Buru and Seram, where it inhabits tropical moist lowland forest, mangrove forest, and moist montane forest. It forages from understory to canopy, often along edges, clearings, and secondary regrowth where flowers are abundant. It can be locally common around blossoming trees and may move nomadically in response to nectar availability. Despite preferring forest, it will also use wooded gardens and plantations near forest.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A small honeyeater of the Maluku Islands, the Wakolo myzomela frequents flowering trees and shrubs to sip nectar and also takes small insects. By moving between blooms, it likely plays a role in pollinating native forest plants. It adapts to a range of wooded habitats from mangroves to montane forest, often visiting forest edges and secondary growth.
Temperament
active and somewhat territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile, darting movements
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups, often following flowering cycles. Males may defend rich nectar sources against other small birds. Nests are likely small, neat cups placed on slender branches or in forks, with both parents involved in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Emits thin, high-pitched tseep notes and quick trills while foraging. Vocalizations are modest but frequent, serving contact and territorial purposes.
