Ptiloprora plumbea
The Leaden Honeyeater (Ptiloprora plumbea) is a medium-sized passerine, reaching approximately 20-22 cm in length with a weight typically around 25-35 grams, characterized by its subtly striking leaden-grey and olive-brown plumage. Its underparts are generally paler, often with faint streaking, contrasting with dark wings and tail. A key field mark for identification is its prominent pale yellow gape-flange and a small, often inconspicuous, yellowish patch behind the eye, coupled with a long,...
This species primarily inhabits montane rainforests and humid moss forests, frequently found along forest edges and in secondary growth. It occurs at elevations typically ranging from 1,200 to 3,800 meters above sea level.
Their diet primarily consists of nectar, supplemented by a significant intake of small insects gleaned from vegetation or caught in flight. They also consume small fruits and berries when available.
Leaden Honeyeaters are generally active and often encountered solitarily or in pairs, foraging throughout the day. They exhibit classic honeyeater foraging strategies, gleaning insects from foliage and bark, hawking them in flight, and probing flowers for nectar with their specialized bills. They...
The Leaden Honeyeater is endemic to the central mountain ranges of New Guinea. Its distribution spans across the major cordilleras, from the Arfak Mountains in the Vogelkop Peninsula of West Papua (Indonesia) eastward through the central highlands of Papua New Guinea, including areas such as the ...
Least Concern
- The "leaden" in its name refers to its distinct greyish plumage, which helps it blend into the dappled light of the montane forests. - It is one of several honeyeater species endemic to the rugged mountains of New Guinea, a global biodiversity hotspot. - Its long, decurved bill is perfectly ada...