Black Honeyeater
NameBlack Honeyeater
Common NameBlack Honeyeater
Scientific NameSugomel nigrum
FamilyMeliphagidae
Wingspan (cm)19
Length (cm)11
Weight (g)7
Plumage DetailsMales have glossy black upperparts, head, and tail, contrasting with pure white underparts. They possess a long, slender, decurved black bill. Females are duller, with grey-brown upperparts and paler greyish-white underparts.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include high-pitched, thin, sibilant 'tseep' or 'swee-swee' notes, often described as a soft, high-pitched whistle.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsforest, desert, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across arid and semi-arid inland Australia, avoiding the extreme south-east and south-west coasts and the far north tropical regions. It is nomadic, following flowering events.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Striking black and white plumage (male), Long, slender, decurved black bill, Active feeding at flowers
Description
This small, active honeyeater is known for its striking black and white plumage in males and its long, decurved bill. It primarily feeds on nectar, hovering or perching acrobatically at flowers, and is found in arid and semi-arid regions of Australia.
