Helmeted Honeyeater
The Helmeted Honeyeater, the bird emblem for Victoria, is critically endangered.
Currently, there are only three small, semi-wild populations established in streamside swamp forest to the east of Melbourne. The birds can be identified by the distinctive yellow tufts on either side of their heads.
Major threats
Loss of habitat is the primary threat to the Helmeted Honeyeater. They need to live close to water, so drought, bushfire, and competition from other birds also endanger their existence.
The plan for fighting extinction
Zoos Victoria began a recovery program for the Helmeted Honeyeater in 1989. We are committed to the captive breeding of the birds to increase their numbers in the wild.
Our program includes reducing potential threats to their existence and establishing a stable wild population at ten distinct but inter-connected colonies.
Zoos Victoria is also involved in monitoring their survival after release.
How you can help
- Do what you can to create community awareness and support for the Helmeted Honeyeater.
- By visiting Healesville Sanctuary, Melbourne Zoo or Werribee Open Range Zoo, you will be supporting our work to fight extinction.
- Donate if you can, because every little bit helps. As we are a not-for-profit organisation, all donations go toward our important conservation efforts.
- Discover more about local conservation events and join the growing number of wild activists taking action for local wildlife.
