Bell Miner feeding on an ant
Bell Miner feeding on an ant in a tree
Canon EOS R1 with a Canon RF 200-800mm F6.3-9 IS USM Lens [ISO 2000, 800mm, f/9.0 and 1/500])
The Bell Miner or Bellbird (Manorina melanophrys) is a colonial honeyeater that tends to feed in tree canopies and is very territorial. These birds exist in groups that occupy an area and defend it aggressively against other birds. Although they are honeyeaters they mostly eat insects. They also like eating the sweet secretions of psyllids, small insects that feed on eucalyptus leaves. Colonies of Bell Miners will protect psyllids from other birds, potentially allowing these insects to exist in greater numbers, which may even impact the overall health of the forest - leading to what is termed Bellbird assisted dieback or BAD. Bell Miners are famous for their persistent bell-like ‘tink’ call, hence why they are known as Bellbirds. This call can be rather soothing, sounding a like a little bell, being struck regularly. Although the photo below of the bird in mid-call seems to jar with that peaceful image, the bird looks more like it is screeching. These miners were part of a group that have a territory in a forest reserve in North Narooma, making for a pleasant walk through their territory to hear the regular bell-call.
Bell Miner making its ‘tink’ call
Canon EOS R1 with a Canon RF 200-800mm F6.3-9 IS USM Lens [ISO 2000, 800mm, f/9.0 and 1/500])
