Scarlet Myzomela

The Scarlet Myzomela, or Scarlet Honeyeater, is Australia's smallest honeyeater, a diminutive and vibrant bird. Males are resplendent in bright red with contrasting black wings, while females are more subdued in brown tones. This species is known for its striking sexual dimorphism and its bell-like tinkling calls.

Identification Tips

To identify the male Scarlet Myzomela, look for its scarlet head, nape, and upper breast, with a black stripe extending from the beak to the eye and a thin black eye-ring. The female, on the other hand, is predominantly brown with potential pinkish or reddish patches on the forehead, throat, and cheeks. Both sexes possess a down-curved black bill and dark brown iris, with the male's bill being a stark black and the female's having a yellowish or brownish base.

Habitat

The Scarlet Myzomela thrives in dry sclerophyll forests and woodlands, where eucalypts dominate and understory is sparse. They are often found flitting about the canopy, foraging among the blossoms.

Distribution

This species graces the eastern coastline of Australia, from the tropical Cape York to the cooler climes of Gippsland in Victoria. It exhibits migratory behavior in the southern parts of its range, retreating northward during the winter months.

Behaviour

The Scarlet Myzomela is a territorial bird, with males singing from treetops to proclaim their domain. They may be displaced by larger honeyeaters at feeding sites, but they are agile foragers, adept at navigating the upper reaches of the forest canopy.

Song & Calls

The male Scarlet Myzomela is particularly vocal, producing a variety of calls including a tuneful tinkling that is reminiscent of cork rubbed against glass. Females chirp and squeak, especially during interactions with males.

Breeding

Breeding season spans from winter to summer, with nests constructed high in the trees. These cup-shaped structures are crafted from shredded bark and spider web. Females lay two, sometimes three, flecked white eggs, which they incubate alone.

Similar Species

The Red-headed Myzomela shares some resemblance with the male Scarlet Myzomela but has a more restricted red coloration to the head. The Dusky Myzomela is similar to the female Scarlet Myzomela but is larger with a longer bill and tail, and lacks the pinkish face and throat.

Diet and Feeding

An omnivorous bird, the Scarlet Myzomela feeds on nectar and insects, often seen darting or hovering around flowers such as turpentine, paperbarks, and banksias. It also sallies forth in the canopy to catch flying insects.

Conservation status

The IUCN has classified the Scarlet Myzomela as Least Concern, thanks to its extensive range and stable population numbers. There are no immediate threats that suggest a decline in its numbers.

Aviculture

Though not commonly seen in aviculture, the Scarlet Myzomela can be kept by experienced bird enthusiasts. They require specific care and housing, and due to their territorial nature, may not fare well in mixed-species aviaries.