The Helmeted Honeyeater (Lichenostomus melanops cassidix) or HeHo for short, a unique subspecies of the Yellow-tufted Honeyeater, is one of Victoria’s state emblems. Found only in a small area within the Yellingbo Nature Conservation Reserve, part of the wider Liwik Barring Landscape Conservation Area, these striking birds with their yellow, black, and olive plumage rely on cooperative social groups for survival.

However, their population is under threat. Loss of genetic diversity, habitat decline due to hydrological changes, and competition from other birds are putting this species at risk.

Urgent conservation efforts are underway to ensure their survival.

National Recovery Plan

Two helmeted honey eaters in a tree

How you can help

One of the most impactful ways to support the Helmeted Honeyeater is by volunteering as a supplementary feeder.

bird on feeding box

What is supplementary feeding?

The wild HeHo population lives in remnant streamside swamp areas feeding on nectar, insects and other food sources. To help the wild HeHo population reach and maintain a sustainable level, additional food and water is provided at feeding stations across the conservation area.

As a volunteer, you will play a crucial role in:

  • providing supplementary food to Helmeted Honeyeaters at designated sites
  • recording observations and reporting on bird behaviour and health

Why volunteer?

  • See these unique birds in the wild – A rare opportunity to observe a critically endangered wild bird population in its natural habitat.
  • Enhance your skills - Gain hands-on experience in wildlife preservation, working alongside passionate conservationists.
  • Stay active and get back to nature – Spend time immersed in the beautiful Yellingbo Nature Conservation Area. Watch the seasons change and the wildlife that comes along with this unspoilt riparian landscape.
  • Make a tangible difference – Volunteers make a crucial contribution to the protection of Victoria’s state faunal emblem.

Volunteer now

To participate in DEECA’s supplementary feeding program for the Helmeted Honeyeater, register your interest via our form.

Expression of interest to join our feeding program

What’s being done - ongoing conservation efforts

volunteers releasing birds

The Victorian Government, in collaboration with conservation groups, has invested significantly in saving the Helmeted Honeyeater. Through programs such as the Biodiversity On-Ground Action Icon Species Grants and the Caring for Our Environment - Faunal Emblems Program, funding is allocated to:

  • close population monitoring
  • captive breeding and bird release programs
  • maintain community awareness of the recovery efforts
  • habitat protection and restoration
  • genetic rescue initiatives
  • pest species control and disease assessment

Who’s involved?

Conserving Victoria’s threatened species is a collaborative effort. Key partners include:

Your support as a volunteer helps these organisations in their vital conservation work.

Other ways you can help

Not able to volunteer?  You can still contribute by:

  • donating to conservation efforts
  • spreading awareness about the Helmeted Honeyeater
  • participating in habitat restoration projects

Every action counts in securing a future for this rare and beautiful species.

You can contact our team if you have any questions about the supplementary feeding program heho@deeca.vic.gov.au.

Resources

Page last updated: 01/05/25