Description: The spotted pardalote is a tiny bird most often found high in a eucalyptus canopy, making it difficult to observe. However, it can be easily detected by its characteristic call. Males have black wings, tail and head covered with small distinct white spots. They also have pale eyebrows, a yellow throat, and a red rump. Females have similar markings, but are less distinct.
Similar species: The Striated Pardalote, a close relative of the Spotted Pardalote, has a striped rather than spotted head and lacks white spots on its wings. It also has a simpler back.
Where you live?
Distribution: The spotted pardalote can be found in eastern and southern Australia, from Cooktown in Queensland to Perth in Western Australia. It is commonly found in coastal areas and can also be found on the western slopes of the Great Dividing Range in the east.
Habitat: The Spotted Pardalote lives mainly in forests and eucalyptus wooded areas. It can also be found in parks and gardens that have a well-established eucalyptus canopy.
Seasonal Movements: Although largely sedentary, the spotted pardalote may undergo local seasonal movements away from higher elevations in fall and winter.
What are you doing?
Diet: The spotted pardalote feeds on insects, especially psyllids, found on the foliage of trees. It also feeds on sugary exudates from leaves and psyllids.
Reproduction: The Spotted Pardalote builds its nest at the end of a narrow tunnel that it excavates in an earthen bank. The nest is a lined and enlarged chamber. It sometimes nests in tree holes and occasionally in artificial structures. Both parents share the construction of the nest, the incubation of the eggs and the feeding of the young when they are born.
Live with us: The Spotted Pardalote is relatively common in urban areas that have a high density of eucalyptus trees. In fact, nests have been found in rolls of carpet and rolling garage doors. Overall, the spotted pardalote is a fascinating bird with unique characteristics that make it an important part of Australia’s ecosystem.
