Red-headed Myzomela
NameRed-headed Myzomela
Common NameRed-headed Myzomela
Scientific NameMyzomela erythrocephala
FamilyMeliphagidae
Wingspan (cm)16.5
Length (cm)11
Weight (g)8.5
Plumage DetailsAdult males have a brilliant scarlet red head, throat, and upper breast, with the rest of the body being dark brown to blackish-brown. There is often some red on the rump and undertail coverts. Females are predominantly olive-brown with a reddish wash on the head and rump, and a paler belly.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a high-pitched, rapid 'tseep-tseep-tseep' or 'swee-swee' call, often given while foraging. They also produce a soft, chattering song.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, wetland, coastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound along the coastal regions of northern Australia, extending from Western Australia through the Northern Territory to Queensland, and also in southern New Guinea.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Males: bright scarlet red head and upper breast, Females: duller olive-brown with reddish wash on head, Slender, decurved black bill, Active foraging behavior
Description
This small honeyeater is characterized by the male's striking scarlet red head and upper breast, contrasting with a dark brown body. Females are duller, with an olive-brown plumage and a reddish wash. They are active foragers, often found in coastal and wetland habitats.
