Purple-gaped Honeyeater
NamePurple-gaped Honeyeater
Common NamePurple-gaped Honeyeater
Scientific NameLichenostomus cratitius
FamilyMeliphagidae
Wingspan (cm)24
Length (cm)16
Weight (g)20
Plumage DetailsThis honeyeater has a grey head with a dark grey or black stripe extending from the lores through the eye. A bright yellow patch covers the chin and throat, bordered by a distinctive purple fleshy gape. The back, wings, and tail are olive-green, while the underparts are paler, often yellowish-grey.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a clear, ringing 'chiew' or 'chiew-chiew' call, often repeated, and a variety of other chattering and chirping notes.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to southern Australia, primarily found in the mallee eucalypt woodlands and shrublands of Western Australia, South Australia, Victoria, and New South Wales.
Identifying FeaturesGrey head with dark eye-stripe, Bright yellow chin and throat, Distinctive purple fleshy gape at the bill's base, Olive-green upperparts
Description
The Purple-gaped Honeyeater is a medium-sized honeyeater with a distinctive grey head, yellow throat, and a prominent purple gape. It typically forages in the canopy and understory of mallee woodlands, feeding on nectar and insects.
