Splendid Sunbird
NameSplendid Sunbird
Common NameSplendid Sunbird
Scientific NameCinnyris coccinigaster
FamilyNectariniidae
Wingspan (cm)20
Length (cm)14
Weight (g)13
Plumage DetailsMales display brilliant iridescent metallic green on the head, back, and upper breast, transitioning to iridescent blue-purple on the rump. A broad, metallic red band crosses the lower breast, bordered below by a narrow iridescent blue-purple band, with the belly being blackish. Females are duller, typically olive-brown above and yellowish below.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a rapid, high-pitched series of 'tsip-tsip-tsip' or 'chwit-chwit-chwit' notes, often incorporating a trill.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across West and Central Africa, from Senegal east to Uganda and south to Angola.
Identifying FeaturesIridescent metallic green head and back (male), Metallic red breast band (male), Long, slender, decurved black bill, Small size
Description
The Splendid Sunbird is a small, vibrant passerine bird known for the male's striking iridescent plumage. It feeds primarily on nectar, using its long, decurved bill to access flowers, and also supplements its diet with insects.
