White-cheeked Honeyeater

The White-cheeked Honeyeater, Phylidonyris niger, presents a striking contrast of black and white plumage. A medium-sized bird, it is characterized by a prominent white cheek patch, a black head, and a sturdy, downward-curving bill. The wings and tail boast bright yellow panels, adding a dash of color to its otherwise monochromatic appearance. The eye is a deep brown, set off by a tapering white brow-line. Juveniles display a yellow gape and brow, with a more subdued brownish plumage.

Identification Tips

When identifying the White-cheeked Honeyeater, look for the large white cheek patch on the black head, the yellow wing and tail panels, and the long, curved bill. Males and females are similar in appearance, with males slightly heavier, ranging from 15.5 to 25 grams, and females from 15.5 to 20 grams. The species measures between 16 to 20 centimeters in length.

Habitat

This bird is typically found in moist heathlands, paperbark swamps, wetlands, and forests or woodlands with a heath understory. It thrives in both temperate and subtropical zones and is often seen in parks, gardens, and along flowering streets.

Distribution

Endemic to Australia, the White-cheeked Honeyeater inhabits the east coast and the south-west corner of the continent. Its range extends from Queensland's Great Divide through coastal New South Wales and down to Jervis Bay, as well as in south-western Western Australia from Israelite Bay to the Murchison River.

Behaviour

The White-cheeked Honeyeater is mostly sedentary, with some seasonal movements at the edge of its range. It is known for its gregarious, active, and noisy demeanor, often seen in small groups with swift and erratic flight patterns.

Song & Calls

The bird's vocal repertoire includes a distinctive yapping "chwikup, chwikup," a melodious "chippy-choo, chippy-choo," and during the breeding season, a lilting "twee-ee-twee-ee" call that accompanies its display song-flight.

Breeding

Breeding can occur at any time of year, depending on nectar availability, with peaks from August to November and March to May. The species is monogamous during the breeding season, with males defending territories for several years. Nests are cup-shaped, built by the female from plant materials and spider webs, and placed low in forked branches or in dense foliage close to the ground.

Similar Species

The New Holland Honeyeater, Phylidonyris novaehollandiae, is similar in size and appearance but has a white eye. Other black and white honeyeaters, such as the Crescent, Tawny-crowned, and White-fronted Honeyeaters, are significantly smaller.

Diet and Feeding

The diet consists mainly of nectar from flowers such as Banksia, eucalypt, Grevillea, and bottlebrush, among others. They also feed on insects, which they glean from bark or catch in the air.

Conservation Status

The IUCN Red List classifies the White-cheeked Honeyeater as Least Concern, indicating a stable population without significant threats to its survival.