Mrs. Gould's Sunbird
NameMrs. Gould's Sunbird
Common NameMrs. Gould's Sunbird
Scientific NameAethopyga gouldiae
FamilyNectariniidae
Wingspan (cm)16.5
Length (cm)14.5
Weight (g)9
Plumage DetailsThe male Mrs. Gould's Sunbird features an iridescent purple crown and nape, a maroon-red back, and bright yellow underparts. Its throat is an iridescent purplish-blue, and it has distinctive long, dark central tail streamers. Females are generally duller, with olive-green upperparts and yellowish underparts.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations consist of a series of high-pitched, rapid, and metallic notes, often described as a 'tsip-tsip-tsip' or 'swee-swee-swee'.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across the Himalayas and Southeast Asia, its range includes Bhutan, China, India, Laos, Myanmar, Nepal, Thailand, and Vietnam, typically inhabiting high-altitude forests.
Identifying Featuresiridescent purple crown, maroon-red back, bright yellow underparts, long decurved bill, long central tail streamers (male)
Description
This small, vibrant sunbird is known for its striking plumage, especially the male's iridescent colors. It possesses a long, decurved bill perfectly adapted for feeding on nectar, often seen actively foraging among flowers in montane forests.
