Myzomela blasii
The Drab Myzomela, *Myzomela blasii*, is a small and unassuming member of the Meliphagidae family, the honeyeaters, endemic to the Maluku Islands of Indonesia. Measuring a diminutive 11-13 cm in length and weighing approximately 8-10 grams, it is characterized by its aptly named, subdued plumage. Its upperparts are a uniform dull grey, contrasting with paler whitish underparts, though the flanks can show a slight grey wash. A distinctive pale eye-ring often stands out against its head. Perhap...
This species primarily inhabits lowland and hill forests, including forest edges and disturbed areas, up to elevations of around 1,200 meters. It can also be found in secondary growth, plantations, and occasionally mangrove forests, demonstrating adaptability to various arboreal environments.
Primarily nectivorous, feeding on nectar from a variety of flowering plants, but also consumes small insects, spiders, and occasionally small fruits or berries. Forages by probing flowers and gleaning arthropods from foliage.
The Drab Myzomela is a highly active and agile diurnal bird, constantly flitting through the canopy and sub-canopy in search of food. It typically forages solitarily or in pairs, rarely joining mixed-species flocks. Its foraging strategy involves active gleaning of insects from foliage and bark, ...
The Drab Myzomela is exclusively found within the Maluku Islands (also known as the Moluccas) of eastern Indonesia, where it is a resident species. Its distribution encompasses several key islands within this archipelago, including Seram, Ambon, Saparua, Buru, Boano, Manipa, Kelang, and other sma...
Least Concern
- The Drab Myzomela is unique among its genus for its subdued coloration; most other Myzomela species are strikingly adorned with bright red, yellow, or orange patches. - Its scientific name, *Myzomela blasii*, honors the German ornithologist Gustav Blasii. - Despite its 'drab' appearance, its br...