The white-streaked honeyeater is a species of bird in the family Meliphagidae. It is monotypic within the genus Trichodere. It is endemic to Cape York Peninsula in Queensland, Australia. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical dry forest.
Region
Cape York Peninsula
Typical Environment
Occurs in the northern tip of Queensland, primarily in dry eucalypt woodlands, open forests, and along paperbark (Melaleuca) swamps and watercourses. It frequents edges, clearings, and flowering trees where nectar is abundant. The species also uses mixed woodland and savanna with scattered shrubs. It is generally patchy but locally common where suitable flowering resources are available.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This honeyeater is the sole member of the genus Trichodere and is confined to the Cape York Peninsula of Queensland, Australia. It is often overlooked because its streaked, olive-brown plumage blends well with dry eucalypt woodland. Like many honeyeaters, it follows flowering events of trees and shrubs. Protecting intact woodland and riparian paperbark stands benefits this species.
Temperament
active and moderately territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups, defending flowering trees against other nectar-feeders. Builds a small cup nest suspended in shrubs or low trees. Breeding coincides with periods of abundant blossom and insect availability.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of clear, ringing whistles and thin piping notes interspersed with soft chatters. Calls accelerate during territorial disputes around flowering trees.
Plumage
Olive-brown upperparts with prominent white streaking on the head and underparts; feathers often show fine dark centers creating a striped effect. Underparts are paler with crisp white streaks. The overall texture appears sleek with neat, well-defined streaks.
Diet
Takes nectar from eucalypts, melaleucas, grevilleas, and other flowering shrubs. Supplements nectar with small insects and spiders gleaned from foliage and bark. Will hawk briefly for flying insects when available and may sip sugary exudates from lerp and honeydew.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in the mid to upper canopy of open woodland and along riparian paperbark stands. Also uses edges, clearings, and roadside flowering trees where nectar sources are concentrated.
