Spinebill

The Eastern Spinebill is a tiny honeyeater with fabulously colourful plumage. Both sexes are essentially the same but the female (photo right) is muted with a grey cap. The male (photo bottom right) is brighter with a black cap. 

This Spinebill is found in eastern and south eastern areas, less common in the north. They are active and energetic birds, searching rainforest areas for nectar. They are also seen in parks and gardens. 

The Western Spinebill is much less common than its eastern cousin. They are restricted to the south western part of Western Australia. You can find them along the coast once you get past the Nullarbor Plain. 

The colours of this Spinebill make it distinctive and easy to identify. However, it is active and fast which makes it harder to find. They prefer wet forests, parks and gardens. 

Male Western Spinebill have a bright rufous brown throat and bright red eye with prominent white brow. The female is much plainer grey and brown with a tan neck.