In view of recent sightings, a note on this unusual bird is appropriate. This is about the time for its 10th birthday. Close observers of it, or of its photos, have little doubt we are seeing the same individual.
It has appeared at some time at the same place in each of the last 10 years. There are several records of successful breeding by this female, paired with a New Holland.
As to its remarkable age, it will be no surprise that there are absolutely no other records to indicate longevity of a White-cheeked x New Holland Honeyeater. HANZAB retrap info suggests 10 years may be about maximum
for New Holland, one exception reaching 14. An individual White-cheeked in WA reached 9 yrs 10 mos. There might be more recent records.
