Image of Cardinal Myzomela

Description:

The Segasegamau’u (Myzomela cardinalis) or Cardinal Honeyeater displays a wide habitat tolerance, similar to the Orange-breasted Myzomela in Fiji, and is one of the most commonly encountered birds in Samoa. It is endemic to Fiji and found in Samoa, American Samoa, Vanuatu, Loyalty Islands, New Caledonia, eastern Solomon Islands, and north of much of Micronesia. Males are black with vivid scarlet upper parts, chin and throat. The back is slightly mottled with black. Females are drab olive-grey with paler underparts and a scarlet rump and lower back. The bird can reach 9 cm in height during adulthood. During flight, it is fast and direct. Primarily a nectar feeder, it also gleans extensively for small insects. When foraging it releases a high-pitched zeet that is frequently given. The small cup-shaped nest is built on forked branches, generally constructed of grass cuttings. Three to five white eggs with a few red spots are laid. Segavao Watling, Dick and Kelly, Chloe Talbot. 2001. A Guide to the Birds of Fiji & Western Polynesia. Environmental Consultants (Fiji) Ltd. Fiji.