Myzomela cardinalis
The Cardinal Myzomela, *Myzomela cardinalis*, is a striking and diminutive honeyeater native to the islands of Melanesia. Males are instantly recognizable by their brilliant, intense scarlet-red plumage covering the head, throat, breast, and back, dramatically contrasted by black wings, tail, and lower belly. Measuring approximately 11 cm in length and weighing a mere 6-8 grams, it is one of the smallest members of the Meliphagidae family. Females present a much duller appearance, typically g...
Found in a variety of tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forest types, secondary growth, coastal thickets, plantations, and garden habitats. It ranges from sea level up to elevations of about 1,200 meters.
Primarily nectar from a wide variety of flowering plants, supplemented by small insects and spiders, and occasionally small fruits or berries.
This highly active and restless bird is primarily diurnal, often observed singly or in pairs, sometimes joining small family groups or mixed-species foraging flocks. It exhibits exceptional agility, frequently hovering hummingbird-like to access nectar from flowers with its fine, decurved bill an...
The Cardinal Myzomela is a resident species distributed throughout the tropical islands of Melanesia. Its core range includes the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, and the Santa Cruz Islands. Within these archipelagos, it is found on numerous individual islands such as Bougainville, Choiseul, Santa Isabe...
Least Concern
- This tiny bird typically weighs less than 10 grams, making it one of the smallest honeyeaters in its range. - The male's brilliant scarlet plumage is so intense it earns it descriptions like 'living jewel' among birders. - It possesses a specialized brush-tipped tongue, perfectly adapted for ef...