Red-tufted Sunbird
NameRed-tufted Sunbird
Common NameRed-tufted Sunbird
Scientific NameNectarinia johnstoni
FamilyNectariniidae
Wingspan (cm)15
Length (cm)32.5
Weight (g)15
Plumage DetailsMale has iridescent metallic green head, throat, upper breast, and mantle, with darker, almost black wings and belly. A key feature, though often hidden, is a pair of bright red pectoral tufts. The central tail feathers are greatly elongated into streamers. Females are duller, olive-brown above and yellowish below, lacking the long tail streamers and pectoral tufts.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of high-pitched, rapid chirps and trills, often delivered from a prominent perch.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsmountain, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the high-altitude Albertine Rift mountains of East Africa, found in parts of Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
Identifying FeaturesIridescent metallic green plumage (male), Extremely long central tail streamers (male), Long, decurved bill, Red pectoral tufts (male, often hidden), High-altitude montane habitat
Description
This striking sunbird is known for the male's iridescent green and black plumage and exceptionally long central tail feathers. It inhabits high-altitude montane environments, where it primarily feeds on nectar from flowering plants.
