Red-chested Sunbird
NameRed-chested Sunbird
Common NameRed-chested Sunbird
Scientific NameCinnyris erythrocercus
FamilyNectariniidae
Wingspan (cm)13
Length (cm)14
Weight (g)10
Plumage DetailsMale: Iridescent metallic green head, throat, and upper back. Iridescent blue-violet mantle. A broad, bright red band across the chest, bordered below by a narrow iridescent blue-violet band. The rest of the underparts are black, and the wings are dark brown/black. The tail is black, often with elongated central rectrices. Female: Olive-brown upperparts, yellowish underparts, sometimes with faint streaking.
Vocalization / CallA rapid series of high-pitched, metallic notes, often described as a 'tsip-tsip-tsip' or 'chittering' song. Also produces various short, sharp calls.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in East Africa, including parts of Sudan, South Sudan, Ethiopia, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, and eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
Identifying FeaturesIridescent metallic green head and throat (male), Iridescent blue-violet mantle (male), Bright red chest band (male), Long, decurved black bill, Elongated central tail feathers (male), Olive-brown upperparts and yellowish underparts (female)
Description
This small, active sunbird is characterized by its brilliant iridescent plumage in males. They possess a long, decurved bill adapted for feeding on nectar, often seen darting among flowers or catching insects in flight. Males are particularly striking with their metallic green and blue hues contrasted by a prominent red chest band.
