SUMMARYWOINARSKI, J.C.Z. 1984. Interbreeding of the Spotted and Yellow-rumped PardalotesPardolotus punctatusandP. xanthopygus.Emu 84: 80–86.Two species of spotted pardalotes are currently recognized,Pardalotus punctatusof mesic areas andP. xanthopygusof more xeric areas. Morphologically and ecologically, the two are extremely similar but lack of evidence of interbreeding has led to reluctance to lump the two taxa. This study examines breeding in a contact area near Bendigo, Victoria. Of seven pairs in a study area of forty ha, only two appeared to comprise individuals of the same taxon. Territories did not overlap and were defended vigorously; all males approached and attacked recorded calls and freeze-dried models of malepunctatusandxanthopyguswithout apparent discrimination. In some individuals in this area display calls and plumages were intermediate betweenpunctatusandxanthopygus.This study suggests the two taxa are not behaving as distinct species in this area of contact. Reports on intergradation from other areas in south-eastern Australia further question the validity of specific separation ofP. xanthopygusandP. punctatus.