Lichmera alboauricularis
The Silver-eared Honeyeater, *Lichmera alboauricularis*, is a small, energetic passerine endemic to the lowland forests and forest edges of New Guinea, belonging to the diverse honeyeater family Meliphagidae. This charismatic bird measures approximately 14 cm (5.5 inches) in length, featuring an olive-green to olive-brown upperparts that contrast with paler, often streaked, underparts. Its most distinctive field mark, giving it its common name, is the prominent silvery-white patch or tuft cov...
Found primarily in tropical and subtropical moist lowland forests, forest edges, and secondary growth, often tolerating disturbed areas and plantations, typically below 800 meters elevation.
Feeds primarily on nectar from a variety of flowering trees and shrubs, supplemented by small insects gleaned from foliage or caught in flight.
Silver-eared Honeyeaters are diurnal and highly active birds, frequently seen flitting between flowering plants and trees in search of sustenance. They are often observed individually or in small, loose groups, sometimes joining mixed-species foraging flocks. Their foraging strategy involves prob...
The Silver-eared Honeyeater is endemic to the island of New Guinea, where it is primarily distributed across the northern and western lowland regions. Its breeding range covers a broad swathe from the Vogelkop Peninsula in the Indonesian province of West Papua eastward along the northern coast of...
Least Concern
- The Silver-eared Honeyeater is entirely endemic to the island of New Guinea, found nowhere else in the world. - Its distinctive 'silver ear' patch serves as a key identification mark, making it easily distinguishable from other small honeyeaters in its range. - Like many honeyeaters, it possess...