Ecology
Helmeted honeyeaters breed and forage almost exclusively in riparian (stream-side) areas that are dominated by mountain swamp gum ( Eucalyptus camphora ) and prefer areas with dense undergrowth. Prior to the early 1980's, populations were known to occur within swamp gum ( Eucalyptus ovata ) and manna gum ( Eucalyptus viminalis ) forest. Understorey species form important nesting sites and are vital for successful breeding.
Photograph by Peter Menkhorst, Arthur Rylah Institute, Heidelberg, Victoria.