The white-chinned myzomela is a species of bird in the family Meliphagidae. It is found in the Louisiade Archipelago.
Region
Southwest Pacific
Typical Environment
Endemic to several islands of the Louisiade Archipelago off southeastern Papua New Guinea. It occupies tropical lowland forest, forest edge, mangroves, and village gardens with flowering shrubs and trees. The species readily uses secondary growth and coconut plantations, moving locally as flowers bloom. It tends to remain near mid-story blossoms but will descend to low shrubs or visit canopy blooms depending on resources.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A small honeyeater restricted to the Louisiade Archipelago of Papua New Guinea, it is most easily recognized by the neat white patch on the chin. Males are darker and glossier, while females are browner and more subdued. It frequents flowering trees in forests, gardens, and coconut groves, often defending rich nectar sources with surprising vigor. Its adaptability to secondary growth helps it persist on populated islands.
Temperament
active and territorial around flowering trees
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small loose groups at rich nectar sources. Pairs maintain small feeding territories and may chase other honeyeaters. Cup-shaped nests are placed in shrubs or slender tree branches, with both parents attending the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A quick series of high, thin tinkling notes interspersed with squeaky chips. Calls accelerate during disputes at blossoms and soften to faint twitters while foraging.
Plumage
Male is mostly sooty to blackish with a distinct, clean white chin patch; female is olive-brown above and paler below with a whitish chin and less contrasting face. Both sexes have fine, sleek feathers typical of honeyeaters and a slightly glossy finish in males. Underparts are otherwise plain, with minimal streaking.
Diet
Primarily nectar from flowering trees and shrubs, including coastal and garden species. It supplements nectar with small insects and spiders, gleaned from foliage or taken in short sallies. The mixed diet supports high activity and feeding of nestlings with protein-rich prey.
Preferred Environment
Forages in forest edge, secondary growth, mangroves, village gardens, and coconut groves. Most feeding occurs in the mid-story and canopy but it will descend to flowering shrubs when available.
