Myzomela erythromelas
The Black-bellied Myzomela (*Myzomela erythromelas*) is a strikingly vibrant member of the honeyeater family (Meliphagidae), instantly recognizable by its dazzling plumage. Males boast a glossy black body contrasted sharply with a brilliant scarlet head, throat, breast, and a patch on the lower back, measuring approximately 11 cm in length and weighing a mere 8-12 grams. Females, while more subdued, display dark brown-grey upperparts, a paler greyish-white belly, and a variable wash of dull r...
This species primarily inhabits tropical lowland rainforests, monsoon vine thickets, melaleuca woodlands, and mangrove forests, typically found at elevations up to 500 meters.
Primarily nectivorous, consuming nectar from a wide variety of flowering plants, supplemented by small insects and spiders gleaned from foliage or caught in flight.
Black-bellied Myzomelas are hyperactive and restless birds, constantly flitting among flowering trees and shrubs throughout the day. They typically forage alone or in small, loose groups, darting from blossom to blossom to probe for nectar or glean small insects from foliage. During the breeding ...
The Black-bellied Myzomela has a restricted but stable distribution across parts of northern Australia and southern New Guinea. In Australia, it is found primarily on the northern Cape York Peninsula in Queensland, extending south along coastal areas to roughly the Endeavour River. Its New Guinea...
Least Concern
- The male Black-bellied Myzomela's vibrant scarlet head, throat, and breast, contrasting with its glossy black body, makes it one of Australia's most spectacularly colored honeyeaters. - At approximately 11 cm in length and 8-12 grams, it is among the smallest honeyeaters, exhibiting remarkable ...