Samoan Myzomela
NameSamoan Myzomela
Common NameSamoan Myzomela
Scientific NameMyzomela cardinalis
FamilyMeliphagidae
Wingspan (cm)16
Length (cm)10.5
Weight (g)7
Plumage DetailsMale plumage features a brilliant scarlet red head, throat, breast, and rump, sharply contrasting with a glossy black back, wings, and tail. The belly is mostly black, with the red extending down the upper breast. Females are generally duller, with olive-brown upperparts and paler underparts, often with a reddish wash on the rump and sometimes the throat.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations consist of high-pitched, rapid series of 'tseet' or 'chip' notes, often delivered quickly and energetically.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Samoan Islands, including Savai'i, Upolu, Tutuila, Ofu, Olosega, and Ta'u.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Long, slender, decurved black bill, Striking red and black plumage (male), Active feeding behavior, often hovering at flowers
Description
The Samoan Myzomela is a small, active honeyeater endemic to the Samoan Islands. Males are strikingly colored with a brilliant scarlet head, breast, and rump contrasting with a black back, wings, and tail, while females are duller. It feeds primarily on nectar, using its long, decurved bill, and also consumes insects.
