The Spotted Pardalote, a diminutive bird, is typically found perched high in the eucalypt canopy, making its presence known primarily through its unique vocalization. The male of this species showcases black wings, tail, and head adorned with petite, noticeable white spots. Additionally, males possess a pale eyebrow, a yellow throat, and a red rump. While females bear a resemblance, their markings are less distinct.
In contrast, the Striated Pardalote (P. striatus), a closely related species, features a head pattern characterized by stripes instead of spots. Furthermore, it does not possess the spotted wings and has a less elaborate back appearance.
Where does it live?
The distribution of the Spotted Pardalote spans across the eastern and southern regions of Australia, ranging from Cooktown in Queensland to Perth in Western Australia. Its habitat includes coastal areas and expands to the western slopes of the Great Dividing Range in the eastern part of the country.
While predominantly inhabiting eucalypt forests and woodlands, the Spotted Pardalote can also be observed in parks and gardens that possess a well-developed eucalypt canopy.
Largely sedentary, but may undergo local seasonal movements away from higher elevations in autumn/winter.
What does it do?
The Spotted Pardalote forages on the foliage of trees for insects, especially psyllids, and sugary exudates from leaves and psyllids.
The Spotted Pardalote’s nest is an enlarged, lined chamber at the end of narrow tunnel, excavated in an earth bank. Sometimes they nest in tree hollows and occasionally in artificial structures. Both parents share nest-building, incubation of the eggs and feeding of the young when they hatch.
The Spotted Pardalote remains relatively common in urban areas that have a high density of eucalypts. Nests have sometimes been found in carpet rolls and garage roll-a-doors.