Flame-eared Honeyeater
NameFlame-eared Honeyeater
Common NameFlame-eared Honeyeater
Scientific NamePtilotula cratitia
FamilyMeliphagidae
Wingspan (cm)23
Length (cm)15
Weight (g)15
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are olive-green, contrasting with yellowish-green underparts that may show faint streaking on the breast. The head features a prominent black mask extending from the bill through the eye, bordered by a striking flame-like yellow-orange ear patch and a small yellow tuft behind the eye. The bill is black and slightly downcurved.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of clear, ringing, and often repeated 'chiew-chiew' or 'chick-up' notes, which can sometimes have a harsh or scolding quality.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to south-eastern Australia, primarily inhabiting the mallee regions of Victoria, South Australia, and western New South Wales.
Identifying Featuresbright yellow-orange ear patch, black mask across the eye, olive-green plumage, slightly downcurved black bill, small yellow tuft behind the eye
Description
The Flame-eared Honeyeater is a medium-sized bird characterized by its olive-green plumage and a distinctive black mask with a bright yellow-orange ear patch. It is an active species, typically found foraging for nectar and insects in the canopy of mallee eucalypt woodlands.
