Manorina melanophrys
The Bell Miner, *Manorina melanophrys*, is a distinctive honeyeater of eastern Australia, renowned for its characteristic bell-like calls. Measuring approximately 17-19 cm in length and weighing between 25-35 grams, this medium-sized passerine is easily identified by its predominantly olive-green plumage, bright yellow-orange bill, similarly colored legs, and a striking bare yellow-orange patch of skin behind its dark eye. There is no significant sexual dimorphism or seasonal plumage variatio...
Found primarily in moist, often riparian, eucalypt forests and woodlands, particularly those with a dense understory. Typically inhabits lower elevations but can be found in mountain gullies.
Primarily consists of psyllid insects and their sugary secretions (lerp and honeydew) gleaned from eucalypt leaves. Also consumes nectar and other small invertebrates opportunistically.
Bell Miners are highly social and form complex, year-round colonies that can number in the hundreds, characterized by a sophisticated cooperative breeding system where numerous 'helpers' assist a breeding pair. They are diurnal, spending their days actively foraging and defending their collective...
The Bell Miner is endemic to eastern Australia, with its range extending along the Great Dividing Range and associated coastal lowlands. It is found from southeastern Queensland, through the entirety of New South Wales, and into much of Victoria. Its distribution is closely tied to specific eucal...
Least Concern
- Bell Miners are notorious for 'farming' psyllid insects, aggressively excluding other birds from their territory to ensure a steady food supply. This can ironically contribute to eucalypt dieback. - Their common name comes from their distinctive, high-pitched, bell-like 'tink' or 'ping' calls, ...