Myzomela longirostris
The Long-billed Myzomela, *Myzomela longirostris*, is a distinctive member of the honeyeater family (Meliphagidae), immediately recognizable by its remarkably long, slender, and strongly decurved black bill, which can measure up to 30mm. This small passerine typically measures 13-16 cm in length and weighs between 8-16 grams. Its plumage is generally understated, featuring olive-brown to dull grey-green upperparts, contrasting with paler greyish underparts and a slightly darker facial mask, o...
This species primarily inhabits tropical and subtropical moist lowland forests, monsoon forests, mangroves, and dense coastal woodlands, typically found from sea level up to 600-700 meters.
Primarily nectivorous, consuming copious amounts of nectar from various flowering plants, supplemented significantly by small insects and spiders gleaned from vegetation or caught on the wing. Occasionally, small fruits are also consumed.
The Long-billed Myzomela is a highly active and agile diurnal bird, constantly moving through the canopy and often hovering like a hummingbird to access flowers. Its foraging strategy centers on probing blossoms for nectar, but it also gleans small insects and spiders from foliage and bark, occas...
The Long-billed Myzomela is widely distributed across northern and eastern coastal regions of Australia, extending from the Kimberley region of Western Australia, eastward through the Top End of the Northern Territory, and along the eastern coast of Queensland as far south as Rockhampton. Its ran...
Least Concern
- The Long-billed Myzomela possesses the longest bill relative to its body size among all Australian *Myzomela* species, a remarkable adaptation for its specialized diet. - It is one of the few honeyeaters capable of sustained hovering flight, resembling a hummingbird, to feed from deep-throated ...