Meropogon forsteni
The Purple-bearded Bee-eater (Meropogon forsteni) is a spectacularly plumaged, medium-sized bird, immediately identifiable by its namesake vibrant purple "beard" adorning its throat. Measuring 25-26 cm in length, including its elongated central tail feathers, and weighing 50-60 grams, it boasts a rich green body, a rufous-brown crown, and a distinctive black mask running through its eye. Its underparts transition from greenish-blue to a rufous-chestnut belly, complemented by a long, slender, ...
This species exclusively inhabits montane primary and secondary forests, as well as forest edges and clearings with scattered trees, typically found at elevations between 600 and 2000 meters, predominantly around 1000-1600 meters.
Its diet primarily consists of large flying insects, with a strong preference for Hymenoptera (bees, wasps, hornets), supplemented by dragonflies, beetles, and cicadas, all captured through aerial hawking.
The Purple-bearded Bee-eater exhibits a largely solitary or paired existence, occasionally seen in small family groups, a less gregarious nature compared to many other bee-eater species. It is a diurnal, active aerial insectivore, typically sallying from exposed perches such as dead snags, vines,...
The Purple-bearded Bee-eater is endemic to the Indonesian island of Sulawesi, where it is found throughout all four of the island's distinctive arms. This species is a non-migratory resident, confined to its specific montane forest habitat across its distribution. It does not exhibit significant ...
Least Concern
- The Purple-bearded Bee-eater is the sole member of its genus, Meropogon, making it taxonomically unique among bee-eaters. - Its dazzling "beard" of purple plumage on its throat is a key identifier and the source of its common name. - Unlike many other bee-eaters, this species tends to be less g...