**Micronesian myzomela (Myzomela rubratra dichromata)**

A tiny nectar-feeding bird widespread across Micronesia, playing an important role in the pollination of many island plants.

Context

Pairs and solitary males were observed in a variety of habitats, from coconut plantations near the airport to pristine native forests around Liduduhniap Waterfall in the highlands of Pohnpei.

Field notes

This was the first bird I saw and photographed upon arriving on Pohnpei. These birds appear particularly fond of coconut flowers, and I was fortunate to observe a male visiting the coconut palms in front of my hotel, located next to the airport, on a daily basis.

This species appears to be one of the most common native birds on the island. I observed individuals in a wide variety of habitats and at different elevations, from coastal mangrove forests to coconut plantations, primary forest edges, and gardens.

Males are particularly conspicuous thanks to their bright scarlet plumage and often perch in the open between feeding bouts. Females, by contrast, appear much more difficult to photograph, as they tend to remain in less exposed areas and lack the males’ striking coloration.

Key facts

The Micronesian myzomela occurs across much of Micronesia, inhabiting many of the larger islands from the Mariana and Caroline Islands eastward to Kosrae. The subspecies dichromata is endemic to Pohnpei and nearby atolls. Six other subspecies are recognized.

The Pohnpei subspecies can be distinguished by the female’s plumage, which is considerably less red and more greyish than that of females belonging to other subspecies.

Although nectar forms a large part of their diet, these birds also feed on small insects and spiders, particularly during the breeding season. By moving between flowers throughout the day, Micronesian myzomelas play an important role as pollinators of many native and cultivated plant species.

Conservation

The species is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List and remains common throughout much of its range.

On Pohnpei, although the species is still common, significant population declines have been reported in connection with deforestation and the conversion of native forests into cultivated areas. Habitat loss appears to be one of the main threats facing the local population.

The subspecies saffordi of the Micronesian myzomela was once numerous on Guam, but the introduction of the brown tree snake devastated the island’s native bird populations. This subspecies is now extinct on Guam and was last documented there in 1984.