Wakolo Myzomela

Myzomela wakoloensis

The Wakolo Myzomela (Myzomela wakoloensis) is a striking, small honeyeater endemic to the montane forests of Seram island in Indonesia, belonging to the diverse family Meliphagidae. Measuring approximately 11-12 cm in length and weighing between 7-10 grams, it exhibits clear sexual dimorphism. Adult males are spectacularly adorned with a glossy crimson-red head, upperparts, breast, and flanks, contrasting sharply with a whitish belly and brownish-black wings and tail, while females present a ...

Habitat

Found primarily in primary montane and submontane forests, including stunted moss forest and forest edges, typically at elevations ranging from 1100 to 3000 meters.

Diet

Feeds predominantly on nectar from various flowering plants, supplemented significantly by small insects and arthropods gleaned from vegetation.

Behavior

This active and restless honeyeater forages throughout the day, often singly, in pairs, or small family groups, occasionally joining mixed-species flocks. Its foraging strategy involves actively gleaning small insects from foliage and bark, while also probing flowers for nectar with its brush-tip...

Range

The Wakolo Myzomela is strictly endemic to Seram Island, one of the larger islands in the Maluku (Moluccas) archipelago of Indonesia. Its distribution is confined to the mountainous interior of Seram, primarily found within the submontane and montane forests. It typically inhabits elevations rang...

Conservation Status

Near Threatened

Fun Facts

- The Wakolo Myzomela is a true island specialist, found exclusively on the rugged montane slopes of Seram, an island in Indonesia's Maluku archipelago. - Its dazzling crimson plumage in males makes it one of the most vividly colored honeyeaters in the Myzomela genus. - Despite its striking appea...

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