Gurney's Sugarbird
NameGurney's Sugarbird
Common NameGurney's Sugarbird
Scientific NamePromerops gurneyi
FamilyPromeropidae
Wingspan (cm)20
Length (cm)25
Weight (g)35
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is predominantly grey-brown on the back and wings, with a paler, streaked greyish breast and belly. A distinctive rufous-orange patch is present on the throat and upper breast, extending to the crown. The undertail coverts are bright yellow, and the bill is long, slender, and decurved.
Vocalization / CallIts call is typically a series of harsh, scratchy notes, often described as a 'chick-chick-chick' or 'sssk-sssk-sssk' sound, sometimes interspersed with sweeter, warbling phrases.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsmountain, grassland
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeFound in fragmented populations in southern Africa, primarily in the eastern highlands of South Africa, Eswatini, and eastern Zimbabwe.
Identifying FeaturesVery long tail feathers (especially males), Long, decurved bill, Rufous-orange throat and crown patch, Bright yellow undertail coverts, Grey-brown body plumage
Description
Gurney's Sugarbird is a medium-sized passerine known for its exceptionally long tail feathers, especially in males. It is an active bird, often seen perching conspicuously on flowering plants to feed on nectar and insects.
