Grey-headed Honeyeater

The Grey-headed Honeyeater, known scientifically as Ptilotula keartlandi, is a modestly sized member of the Meliphagidae family, endemic to the vast landscapes of Australia. This bird is distinguished by its grey crown and a black facial mask, with the rest of its upper body adorned in shades of dark fawn-grey.

Identification Tips

Adults of this species boast a grey crown that sits above a striking black facial mask. The mask extends from the bill's base to the rear of the ear coverts, framed by a thin, bright yellow plume. The bill is short, black, and slightly down-curved, with a yellow base on the lower mandible that may darken during breeding. The iris is typically black to dark brown, and the gape is yellow, also darkening during breeding. The underparts are a light olive-yellow with brown streaks, and the wings have a yellow panel when folded. Males and females are similar in plumage, though males may be slightly larger.

Habitat

The Grey-headed Honeyeater is found in Eucalyptus scrub and woodlands, particularly in stony hill country and timbered gullies. It can also be observed in sand-plains when vegetation is in bloom, as well as in mulga and mallee woodlands, riverine areas, and occasionally in Mitchell grasslands.

Distribution

This species has a broad distribution across central arid and semi-arid Australia, with an estimated range of over 4 million square kilometres.

Behaviour

The Grey-headed Honeyeater is generally sedentary but may exhibit nomadic tendencies in response to flowering events. It is often seen alone or in pairs, though small groups may gather at abundant food sources. The bird is known for its active, vocal, inquisitive nature, and can display aggression during feeding and possibly breeding.

Song & Calls

The bird's vocal repertoire includes a continuous, peevish "chip" call when feeding and a "wee-wee-wee" song. Other sounds include a loud "kwoyt" and "chee-toyt," which may be associated with breeding.

Breeding

Breeding may occur at any time, often following rainfall. Nests are small, open cups made from dried plant material and spider webs, usually situated low in a tree or shrub. Clutch size is typically two eggs, which are white or pink with potential light brown or purple spots.

Diet and Feeding

The diet consists of invertebrates gleaned from foliage and branches, insects caught in flight, and nectar from flowering trees such as hakeas, eucalypts, grevilleas, and mallee. It may also consume occasional fruit.

Conservation status

The Grey-headed Honeyeater is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List, with a stable population and extensive range. It is also considered Least Concern under Australian state and Commonwealth law.