Ornate Melidectes
NameOrnate Melidectes
Common NameOrnate Melidectes
Scientific NameMelidectes torquatus
FamilyMeliphagidae
Wingspan (cm)32
Length (cm)21
Weight (g)50
Plumage DetailsFeatures a prominent patch of bare yellow skin around the eye, a black crown and nape, a white crescent behind the eye, and a black malar stripe. The throat and breast are white with heavy black scaling, while the back and wings are olive-green, and the tail is greyish.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include loud, ringing whistles and a variety of chattering or scolding notes.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the montane regions of New Guinea.
Identifying Featuresbright yellow bare eye-patch, black and white head pattern, scaled breast plumage, long, slender, decurved bill
Description
This medium-sized honeyeater is characterized by its striking yellow bare skin around the eyes and a bold black and white head pattern. It typically forages for nectar and insects in the montane forests of New Guinea.
