cardinal myzomela Myzomela cardinalis

A small, strikingly plumaged myzomela with a bright crimson red head, back, and rump and black wings, belly, chest, and tail. Thin bill decurved. Female mostly dark reddish, with darker ruddy brownish coloration where male would be black. Seems to prefer forest habitats, but widespread. Unique coloration of both sexes should identify this species with certainty. Vocally shy. Common call is a repeated high-pitched, insect-like “tseet.”