Black-eared Miner
NameBlack-eared Miner
Common NameBlack-eared Miner
Scientific NameManorina melanotis
FamilyMeliphagidae
Wingspan (cm)27.5
Length (cm)24.5
Weight (g)60
Plumage DetailsThe plumage features a grey head and nape, with a prominent black patch extending from behind the eye to the ear coverts. A small yellow patch is visible above the eye. The back and wings are olive-grey, with a distinct yellow wash on the flight feathers and rump, while the underparts are pale grey to whitish. The bill is bright yellow, and the legs are yellowish-orange.
Vocalization / CallBlack-eared Miners are vocal birds, known for a variety of calls including harsh alarm calls, chattering contact calls within the colony, and softer communication notes.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statuscritically-endangered
Geographic RangeEndemic to a small, fragmented range in the semi-arid mallee eucalypt woodlands of south-eastern Australia, primarily found in Victoria and a small part of South Australia.
Identifying FeaturesBlack ear patch, Bright yellow bill, Grey head with yellow eye patch, Yellow wash on wings and rump, Colonial behavior
Description
The Black-eared Miner is a medium-sized honeyeater characterized by its grey head, distinctive black ear patch, and bright yellow bill. This highly social bird lives in colonies within its specific mallee eucalypt woodland habitat, where it forages for nectar and insects.
