Myzomela chloroptera
The Sulawesi Myzomela (Myzomela chloroptera) is a petite and vibrant member of the honeyeater family, Meliphagidae, renowned for its distinctive plumage. Measuring approximately 11-12 cm (4.3-4.7 inches) in length and weighing around 8-11 grams, this active passerine is characterized by its bright olive-green upperparts and crown, contrasting sharply with a brilliant golden-yellow throat and chest that fades to a pale whitish-yellow belly. Its slender, decurved black bill is perfectly adapted...
This species thrives in a variety of forest habitats, from lowland primary and secondary forests to montane forests, often frequenting forest edges, cultivated areas, and gardens. It can be found from sea level up to elevations of at least 2,000 meters (6,500 feet).
Primarily nectivorous, consuming nectar from a wide variety of flowering plants, supplemented by small insects and spiders gleaned from vegetation.
Sulawesi Myzomelas are highly active, diurnal birds, often observed singly or in pairs, tirelessly foraging through the canopy and mid-story. Their primary foraging strategy involves probing flowers for nectar with their specialized bills, a behavior that makes them important pollinators. They al...
The Sulawesi Myzomela is endemic to the Indonesian archipelago, specifically confined to the island of Sulawesi and several of its satellite islands. Its distribution includes northern, central, southern, and southeastern Sulawesi, extending to the Togian Islands, Muna Island, Buton Island, Sula ...
Least Concern
- The name 'chloroptera' directly translates to 'green-winged', a fitting description for this uniquely colored honeyeater that stands apart from its red-and-black relatives. - It is one of the few *Myzomela* species that does not feature prominent red plumage, making it a distinctive anomaly wit...