Myzomela erythrina
The Reddish Myzomela (Myzomela erythrina) is a diminutive and vibrant member of the honeyeater family, Meliphagidae, renowned for its striking plumage. Measuring approximately 11-12 cm in length and weighing around 7-10 grams, adult males are particularly resplendent with glossy crimson-red heads, throats, and breasts, contrasting sharply with dark, olive-brown to blackish upperparts and greyish underparts. Females are generally duller, exhibiting a more subdued reddish or rufous wash on the ...
Found primarily in humid montane and hill forests, including forest edges and disturbed areas, typically at elevations ranging from 500 to 2,000 meters.
Primarily nectarivorous, feeding on nectar from various flowering trees and shrubs, supplemented by small insects and spiders gleaned from foliage.
Reddish Myzomelas are highly active, diurnal birds that spend most of their time foraging in the canopy and sub-canopy layers of their forest habitat. Their foraging strategy primarily involves probing flowers for nectar with their specialized brush-tipped tongues, often seen hovering briefly or ...
The Reddish Myzomela is endemic to the island of New Guinea, encompassing both Papua New Guinea and the Indonesian provinces of Papua and West Papua. Its distribution is continuous across the main island's central mountain ranges and associated hill forests, generally avoiding lowland areas. Ther...
Least Concern
- The Reddish Myzomela's vibrant red plumage is believed to be carotenoid-based, derived from its diet, making it a living indicator of a healthy ecosystem. - Despite its small size, this honeyeater is incredibly agile, capable of hovering hummingbird-like to access flowers. - Its genus, Myzomela...