Pardalotus quadragintus
The Forty-spotted Pardalote, *Pardalotus quadragintus*, is a critically endangered passerine endemic to Tasmania, Australia. Measuring a diminutive 9-10 cm in length and weighing around 10-12 grams, it is characterized by its dull olive-green upperparts and pale yellow underparts. Its most distinctive field mark, giving rise to its name, are the numerous small, bright white spots adorning its flanks and wing coverts, which contrast with an otherwise unpatterned head and lack of prominent faci...
Exclusively found in old-growth dry sclerophyll and coastal woodlands dominated by mature White Gums (*Eucalyptus viminalis*), typically at low to moderate elevations.
Primarily feeds on small arthropods (insects and spiders) and sugary lerps, heavily supplemented by manna (sweet exudates) from the leaves of *Eucalyptus viminalis*.
Forty-spotted Pardalotes are diurnal and highly active, spending most of their day gleaning insects, lerps, and manna from the foliage of White Gums. They exhibit highly territorial behavior during the breeding season, defending their nesting sites and immediate foraging areas. These birds are so...
The Forty-spotted Pardalote is strictly endemic to Tasmania, Australia, and a handful of its near-shore islands. Its distribution is highly fragmented, with strongholds found primarily in southeastern Tasmania, including key areas such as Bruny Island, Maria Island, and Partridge Island. Smaller,...
Endangered
- The 'forty-spotted' name is a loose approximation; the actual number of white spots on its flanks and wings can vary significantly. - It is one of Australia's most habitat-specialized birds, relying almost exclusively on *Eucalyptus viminalis* (White Gum) for food and habitat. - Manna, a sugary...