Spiny-cheeked Honeyeater

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Spiny-cheeked Honeyeater
Conservation status
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Aves
Order: Passeriformes
Family: Meliphagidae
Genus: Acanthagenys
Gould, 1838
Species: A. rufogularis
Binomial name
Acanthagenys rufogularis
Gould, 1838

The Spiny-cheeked Honeyeater (Acanthagenys rufogalaris) is the only species in the genus Acanthegenys. It is large, for a honeyeater, ranging from 22 to 27 centimeters and weighing around 52 grams [1]. The birds are sociable, aggressive, and often observed foraginging in large flocks [2].

The honeyeater is mainly frugivorous, but will also eat nectar, blossoms, insects, reptiles, and baby birds[2]. Its habitat includes deserts, coastal scrubland, and dry woodlands [1]. It can also be found in mangroves and orchards [2]. Its range includes most of Australia except for Tasmania, tropical Northern areas, the Southeastern coast[3].

The Spiny-cheeked Honeyeater is a grey-brown bird with a burnt orange throat and chest. It has grey wings edged with white, and a long tail with white tips. It has a pink, black-tipped bill [2].

[edit] References

  1. ^ a b "Spiny-cheeked Honeyeater." Featherdal Wildlife Park, Sydney, Australia. Accessed: 18 July 2007. URL: [1]
  2. ^ a b c d Birds in Backyards: Spiny-cheeked Honeyeater. Australian Museum. 2005. Accessed: 18 July 2007. URL: [2]
  3. ^ Oz Birds: Spiny-cheeked Honeyeater. Accessed: 18 July 2007. URL: [3]