NICHE OVERLAP BETWEEN 3 SYMPATRIC, SHORT-BILLED HONEYEATERS IN TASMANIA

Niche overlap in relation to foraging ecology and morphological adapta tions was investigated between two Melithreptus species (Strong-billed and Black-headed Honeyeaters) and the Lichenostomus species (Yellow-t hroated Honeyeater) in Tasmania. The Melithreptus species showed littl e overlap in site and method of foraging and were morphologically suit ed to these foraging differences. Yellow-throated Honeyeaters were mor e generalised in use of foraging sites. Yellow-throated and Strong-bil led Honeyeaters showed a seater amount of zone overlap but used differ ent foraging methods. Niche breadth and foraging overlap of all specie s increased in the breeding season. They also had different social org anisations: Yellow-throateds were territorial and excluded other honey eaters, while both Melithreptus species were common in nomadic flocks.