Purple-breasted Sunbird
NamePurple-breasted Sunbird
Common NamePurple-breasted Sunbird
Scientific NameNectarinia purpureiventris
FamilyNectariniidae
Wingspan (cm)15
Length (cm)22
Weight (g)11
Plumage DetailsMales display a striking iridescent plumage with a black head, metallic green throat, and a breast that shimmers with purple, blue, and coppery-red hues. The back and wings also show iridescent green and bronze, while the central tail feathers are greatly elongated and black. Females are duller, typically olive-green above and yellowish below.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a rapid series of high-pitched, metallic 'tsee-tsee-tsee' notes, often followed by a short trill. It also produces sharp 'chip' or 'tsip' calls.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Albertine Rift mountains of central Africa, found in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, western Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi.
Identifying FeaturesBrilliant iridescent purple, blue, green, and coppery-red plumage (males), Very long, decurved bill, Greatly elongated central tail feathers (males), Small size
Description
This stunning sunbird is characterized by its brilliant iridescent plumage and a remarkably long tail in males. It is an active species, primarily feeding on nectar from flowers, often found flitting through the canopy and undergrowth of montane forests.
