Eastern Spinebill
NameEastern Spinebill
Common NameEastern Spinebill
Scientific NameAcanthorhynchus tenuirostris
FamilyMeliphagidae
Wingspan (cm)15.5
Length (cm)14.5
Weight (g)9.5
Plumage DetailsMales have a black head with a prominent white stripe extending from behind the eye down the neck, a white throat, and a chestnut-brown back and flanks. The wings are grey, and the tail is black with white outer feathers. A small yellow patch is visible on the crown, and the eye is red. Females are similar but generally duller in coloration.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a rapid, high-pitched 'chip-chip-chip' or 'squeak-squeak-squeak' often uttered while in flight or actively feeding.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to southeastern Australia, including Tasmania. Its range extends from the Atherton Tableland in Queensland, south through New South Wales and Victoria, to southeastern South Australia, and throughout Tasmania.
Identifying FeaturesLong, slender, downcurved bill, Black head with white stripe and throat, Chestnut-brown back and flanks, Red eye, Rapid, darting flight
Description
The Eastern Spinebill is a small, active honeyeater characterized by its long, slender, downcurved bill, perfectly adapted for feeding on nectar. It exhibits a rapid, darting flight and can often be seen hovering like a hummingbird while feeding from flowers.
