Buru Honeyeater

Lichmera deningeri

The Buru Honeyeater (Lichmera deningeri) is a small, distinctive passerine endemic to Buru Island in Indonesia, typically measuring between 14-16 cm (5.5-6.3 inches) in length. Its plumage is predominantly olive-brown, often with a subtle yellow wash on the belly and flanks, contrasting with a dark loral stripe and striking pale, often whitish or bluish, eyes. A key identification feature, though sometimes subtle, is the presence of yellow ear-tufts, situated just behind the eye. Like other m...

Habitat

This species primarily inhabits lowland and montane primary and secondary forests, thriving in forest edges and even disturbed areas like overgrown gardens and plantations. It is found from sea level up to elevations of at least 1,800 meters.

Diet

Its primary diet consists of nectar, supplemented by insects caught by gleaning or hawking, and occasionally small fruits. It forages predominantly by probing flowers with its specialized bill.

Behavior

The Buru Honeyeater is a diurnal bird, typically observed actively foraging alone or in pairs, though small, loose groups may congregate at particularly abundant flowering resources. Its primary foraging strategy involves probing flowers for nectar with its specialized decurved bill, but it also ...

Range

The Buru Honeyeater is strictly endemic to Buru Island, one of the larger islands within the Moluccas (Maluku) archipelago of Indonesia. Its entire distribution is confined to this single island, where it is a resident species, not undertaking any significant migrations. It can be found throughou...

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Fun Facts

- The Buru Honeyeater is an island endemic, meaning it is found nowhere else in the world except for Buru Island, Indonesia. - Despite its extremely restricted range to a single island, it is considered a fairly common species within its native habitat. - Its distinctive pale eye, often appearing...

Back to Encyclopedia