DNA analysis has shown honeyeaters to be related to the Pardalotidae (pardalotes), Acanthizidae (Australian warblers, scrubwrens, thornbills, etc.

Tawny-crowned honeyeaters are sometimes observed hopping amongst plants on the ground to feed, considered as unusual behaviour amongst its near relations.

It resembles the eastern and western spinebills and crescent honeyeater, but is distinguished by a tawny-colored crown above a white line separating the black markings of the face.

[6] They possess a long curved bill that is able to reach nectar at the base of flowers, and in some plants they have become the primary pollinator.

The bulky cup-shaped nest is made of bark, grass, and even seaweed, and lined with softer material such as fur or wool.