Arabian Sunbird
NameArabian Sunbird
Common NameArabian Sunbird
Scientific NameCinnyris hellmayri
FamilyNectariniidae
Wingspan (cm)14.5
Length (cm)11
Weight (g)8
Plumage DetailsMale plumage is highly iridescent, featuring a metallic green head, back, and throat, with a violet-blue crown. A narrow iridescent blue band separates the green throat from a prominent bright red breast band. The belly and flanks are dark sooty-brown to black, with blackish wings and tail. Females are duller, with grey-brown upperparts and paler, sometimes yellowish, underparts.
Vocalization / CallTheir vocalizations include a rapid, high-pitched, chattering song, often described as a series of 'tsee-tsee-tsee' notes. They also emit sharp 'tsip' alarm calls.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsurban, desert
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across the Arabian Peninsula, including Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Oman, and the UAE, extending north into parts of the Middle East such as Israel, Jordan, Palestine, Lebanon, and Syria.
Identifying FeaturesLong, decurved bill, Small size, Male: Iridescent green, violet, and red plumage, Female: Dull grey-brown plumage
Description
This small, active bird is characterized by its long, decurved bill, adapted for feeding on nectar. Males exhibit striking iridescent green, violet, and red plumage, while females are more subtly colored in grey-brown tones. They are typically found in arid and semi-arid environments.
