Conopophila rufogularis
The Rufous-throated Honeyeater (*Conopophila rufogularis*) is a small, vibrant passerine, typically measuring 11-14 cm in length and weighing between 9-15 grams, distinguishing it as one of the more diminutive members of its diverse family. Its most striking feature, and namesake, is the vivid rufous (rusty-red) patch on its throat, often bordered by a fine blackish line, which contrasts sharply with a prominent white supercilium extending behind the eye. Upperparts are a rather plain greyish...
Primarily inhabits riparian woodlands, paperbark (Melaleuca) swamps, mangroves, and Eucalypt forests, consistently found near water sources. It is predominantly a lowland species, rarely venturing into higher elevations.
Primarily consumes nectar from a wide variety of flowering trees and shrubs, notably eucalypts and melaleucas, supplemented significantly by small insects gleaned from foliage or hawked in flight.
A highly active diurnal species, the Rufous-throated Honeyeater forages energetically from dawn to dusk, often roosting communally or in dense vegetation at night. Its foraging strategy is diverse and acrobatic; it gleans insects from foliage, probes various flowers for nectar while hovering or p...
The Rufous-throated Honeyeater is primarily a resident, though locally nomadic, species found throughout tropical northern Australia. Its extensive distribution spans from the Kimberley region of Western Australia, eastward across the Top End of the Northern Territory, and continues through coast...
Least Concern
- Despite its small stature, the Rufous-throated Honeyeater is known for its feisty disposition, often seen chasing much larger birds away from prime foraging or nesting areas. - Its delicate cup-shaped nest is meticulously woven with spiderweb, often giving it a surprisingly translucent and ethe...