Foraging tactics of tui (Meliphagidae)

Abstract

When foraging for nectar tui are not responsive to flower colour; instead, they select flowers with nectar concentrations >7% (wt. per wt.). Tui use fruit and insects when nectar availability falls.

‘Insects’ form a varying proportion of the diet throughout the year, there being a seasonal difference in method of insect prey capture.

Keywords:

• Meliphagidae
• tui
• nectarivorous
• honeyeater
• nectar-feeder
• colour preference
• foraging
• hawking
• gleaning