Forty-spotted Pardalote Pardalotus quadragintus

Length 8.4–10.8 cm; wingspan 18 cm; weight 11 g.

A distinctive arboreal pardalote, the Forty-spotted Pardalote is a gregarious species which is usually seen in twos or in small flocks, though occasionally it occurs singly.  It sometimes associates with Spotted and Striated Pardalotes and Black-headed Honeyeaters.  It is usually active when foraging, but is generally inconspicuous except when calling, and its presence can sometimes be detected by the clicking sound it makes when feeding high in the upper and outer foliage of eucalypts.  Pardalotes move about the tree-tops in short, swift flights, similar to that of other species of pardalotes.

HABITAT
The species inhabits mature, dry sclerophyll forests and open woodlands, usually within 5 km of the coast, dominated by Manna (White) Gum or where it is at least present, sometimes mixed with other eucalypts such as Swamp Gum, Tasmanian Blue Gum, Black Peppermint, Messmate or White Peppermint.  Pardalotes usually prefer areas vegetated with mature trees with hollows.  On Maria Island, the species occurs wherever Manna Gums occur, especially in gullies.

DISTRIBUTION
Endemic to eastern Tasmania.

STATUS

• Endangered in Tasmania
• Endangered in EPBC Act

THREATS
The overall contraction of this species’ range has been caused mainly by the destruction of its forest and woodland habitats.  Such habitat on private land continues to be cleared for agriculture, subdivision and urban development, and the collection of firewood is also a potential threat.  Clearing and fragmentation of forests and woodlands affects both the availability of suitable nesting-sites and the potential for local dispersal.  Bushfires, which prevent regrowth and damage mature trees, pose a threat, especially to isolated populations, though fire is not always detrimental, as Maria Island (where there is a long history of fires connected with grazing activities) supports the largest population of Forty-spotted Pardalotes.  The species is possibly also adversely affected by competition with other species, such as other pardalotes and Noisy Miners.  The species is very occasionally killed by cats.

MOVEMENTS
Not well known. Sedentary, though some young possibly disperse from natal sites.

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