Entomyzon cyanotis
The Blue-faced Honeyeater, Entomyzon cyanotis, is a striking and medium-sized passerine bird, instantly recognizable by its vivid, featherless blue facial skin that extends from the base of its bill to behind the eye. Measuring approximately 25-32 cm (10-12.5 in) in length and weighing 100-160 g (3.5-5.6 oz), it features a dark blackish-brown crown and nape, contrasting with a bright yellow patch on the hind-neck. Its back, wings, and tail are a rich olive-green, while the underparts are clea...
Found in open eucalypt woodlands, acacia scrub, riparian zones, paperbark swamps, and increasingly in urban gardens and parks, often near water sources, primarily at lower elevations.
Primarily nectar from flowering plants, supplemented by a significant intake of insects (gleaned or caught in flight), and various native fruits; occasionally small vertebrates.
Blue-faced Honeyeaters are diurnal and conspicuous, often seen in pairs or small family groups, though larger aggregations can form at abundant food sources. Their foraging strategy is diverse, involving probing flowers for nectar, gleaning insects from foliage and bark, and making aerial sallies...
The Blue-faced Honeyeater is widely distributed across northern and eastern Australia and extends into southern New Guinea. Its breeding range covers a vast expanse from the Kimberley region of Western Australia, across the Northern Territory, Queensland, New South Wales, and into parts of South ...
Least Concern
- The striking 'blue face' is actually featherless skin, not blue plumage, giving the bird its common name. - They are known to be opportunistic nesters, frequently refurbishing and reusing old nests built by other bird species like Magpie-larks or babblers. - Blue-faced Honeyeaters are important...