Mistletoebird

The Mistletoebird, or Dicaeum hirundinaceum, is a diminutive avian species, a member of the flowerpecker family Dicaeidae. Males are resplendent with glossy blue-black upper parts and a striking red chest, while females are more subdued in coloration, with dark grey upper parts and a white throat. Both sexes possess long, pointed wings reminiscent of swallows, and a short, square tail.

Identification Tips

To identify the male Mistletoebird, look for its red chest and under-tail, glossy blue-black upper parts, and a central black stripe running down its white belly. The female is less conspicuous, with grey upper parts and light grey underparts, and a hint of pinkish-red under the tail. The species is characterized by its slender, slightly down-curved bill, and black eyes, bill, and legs.

Habitat

The Mistletoebird is found in a variety of forest and woodland habitats, particularly those dominated by Eucalyptus species. It is a nomadic bird, moving locally in response to the fruiting of mistletoe plants.

Distribution

This species is native to most of Australia, excluding Tasmania and the driest desert regions, and extends to the eastern Maluku Islands of Indonesia.

Behaviour

Mistletoebirds are often seen alone or in pairs, and occasionally in small family groups. They exhibit swift flight and are typically observed high in the tree canopy. Their posture is upright when perched, but they adopt a more horizontal stance when alarmed.

Song & Calls

The Mistletoebird's vocal repertoire includes a variety of sounds, with a familiar high-pitched whistle being the most common. They also produce a repeated whistled "wissweet wissweet" while perched.

Breeding

Courtship involves elaborate displays by the male, with the breeding season coinciding with mistletoe fruiting. Nests are pear-shaped with a side entrance, suspended from branches and camouflaged with plant material. The female constructs the nest and incubates the eggs, with some assistance from the male.

Similar Species

The male Mistletoebird may be confused with the scarlet or flame robin, but it lacks the spot on the forehead and has a black streak on the belly.

Diet and Feeding

The Mistletoebird is a specialist frugivore, feeding predominantly on mistletoe berries. It has adapted to a diet rich in carbohydrates and low in protein, necessitating the consumption of large quantities of fruit.

Conservation status

The Mistletoebird is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating it is not at immediate risk of widespread decline.