Southern Double-collared Sunbird
NameSouthern Double-collared Sunbird
Common NameSouthern Double-collared Sunbird
Scientific NameCinnyris chalybeus
FamilyNectariniidae
Wingspan (cm)15
Length (cm)11.5
Weight (g)9
Plumage DetailsThe male Southern Double-collared Sunbird has an iridescent metallic green head, throat, and upper breast. Below this is a narrow iridescent blue band, followed by a broad, bright red band across the lower breast. The belly is greyish-white, and the back is dark. Females are duller, olive-brown above and yellowish below, lacking the male's vibrant colors and chest bands.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a rapid, high-pitched 'tsip-tsip-tsip' or 'chip-chip-chip', often given while feeding or in flight. The song is a fast, jumbled series of high-pitched notes and trills.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban, coastal, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to southern Africa, primarily found in South Africa, Lesotho, and Eswatini (formerly Swaziland). It is widespread in the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal provinces of South Africa, extending into adjacent regions.
Identifying FeaturesIridescent metallic green head and throat, Narrow iridescent blue breast band, Broad bright red breast band, Greyish-white belly, Long, decurved black bill, Small size
Description
This small, active sunbird is known for the male's brilliant iridescent plumage. It has a long, decurved bill perfectly adapted for feeding on nectar from flowers, though it also consumes insects. Often seen flitting rapidly between blossoms in various habitats across southern Africa.
