White-naped Honeyeater

The White-naped Honeyeater, Melithreptus lunatus, presents itself as a mid-sized bird of the honeyeater family, Meliphagidae, native to the eucalypt woodlands of eastern Australia. This species is characterized by its olive-green upperparts and pristine white underparts. A striking black head, nape, and throat are complemented by a red patch over the eye, while a distinctive white crescent adorns the nape. The bird measures between 13 to 15 centimeters in length and is noted for its slender build compared to its congeners.

Identification Tips

Observers should look for the white-naped honeyeater's unique combination of colors: the olive-green back, white underparts, and the black head with a red eye patch. The white crescent on the nape is a key distinguishing feature. Juveniles can be recognized by their brownish crowns and the orange base of their bills. The species' call, a distinctive "mjerp mjerp," can also aid in identification.

Habitat

The White-naped Honeyeater is typically found in dry sclerophyll eucalypt woodland, a habitat that provides both the nectar and the insects that make up its diet.

Distribution

This bird is endemic to eastern Australia, with its range extending from Queensland through New South Wales to Victoria and South Australia.

Behaviour

The White-naped Honeyeater is known for its nectar-feeding habits, often seen flitting among flowers. It supplements its diet with insects and other invertebrates. During the breeding season, which may occur from July to December, this species may breed once or twice, constructing a thick-walled grass and bark nest in the fork of a tall eucalypt.

Song & Calls

The vocalization of the White-naped Honeyeater is a distinctive "mjerp mjerp," which can be heard across its habitat.

Breeding

Breeding may take place from July to December, with the possibility of one or two broods. The nest is a well-constructed bowl of grasses and bark, situated in the fork of a tall eucalypt. The eggs are shiny, buff-pink, and sparsely spotted with red-brown, measuring 18 mm by 14 mm.

Similar Species

While there are several similar black-headed honeyeaters in the genus Melithreptus, the White-naped Honeyeater can be distinguished by its white nape crescent and red eye patch. The closely related Black-headed Honeyeater of Tasmania and Gilbert's Honeyeater from southwestern Australia are similar but are now recognized as distinct species.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the White-naped Honeyeater is primarily nectar from a variety of flowers, with insects and other invertebrates providing additional nutrition.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List has classified the White-naped Honeyeater as Least Concern, indicating that the species does not currently face a significant risk of extinction.