Spiny-cheeked Honeyeater

About the Spiny-cheeked Honeyeater

The spiny-cheeked honeyeater (Acanthagenys rufogularis) is the only species in the genus Acanthagenys. It is large for a honeyeater, ranging from 22 to 27 centimeters (8.7 to 10.6 inches) tall and weighing around 52 grams. The birds are sociable, aggressive, and often observed foraging in large flocks.

The spiny-cheeked honeyeater is mainly frugivorous, but will also eat nectar, blossoms, insects, reptiles, and young birds. Its habitat includes deserts, coastal scrubland, and dry woodlands. It is also found in mangroves and orchards. Its range includes most of Australia, except for Tasmania, northern tropical areas, and the southeastern coast.

The spiny-cheeked honeyeater's scientific name is Acanthagenys rufogularis. The generic name Acanthagenys derives from the Ancient Greek akantha 'spine, thorn' and genys 'cheek'; the specific epithet derives from Latin rufus 'red' and gula 'throat'.

The species is endemic to Australia and has two known races: Acanthagenys rufogularis parkeri, recognised by K. C. Parkes in 1980, and A. r. rufogularis, recognised by John Gould in 1838. The spiny-cheeked honeyeater, Acanthagenys rufogularis, is a medium-sized bird... Wikipedia →