Purple Sunbird

Overview

The purple sunbird (Cinnyris asiaticus) is a small bird in the sunbird family that inhabits parts of the Arabian Peninsula and South and Southeast Asia. It is a resident species in most parts of its range, showing local movements particularly in drier regions of northwestern India and Pakistan.

Identification

• Less than 10 cm long with a short, down-curved bill and brush-tipped tubular tongues.
• Males are glossy metallic bluish to purplish black on the upper parts with dark brown wings; breeding males may show yellow pectoral tufts and a blue shoulder patch.
• Females are olive brown above with a yellowish underside, a pale supercilium, and a darkish eye stripe.
• Flight is fast and direct, accompanied by a rapid rattling song followed by ringing, metallic notes.

Habitat

The species is found in thin forest and garden land, including dense urban areas, across a wide range from West Asia through the Indian subcontinent to Southeast Asia. It inhabits the plains but can reach altitudes of up to 2,400 m in southern India and 1,700 m in the Himalayas.

Diet

The purple sunbird feeds mainly on nectar and insects, often perching at the base of flowers to forage while flicking its wings. It also consumes fruits such as small berries and cultivated grapes, and may catch insects by flycatching.

Did you know?

These birds have been known to live for nearly 22 years in captivity, despite their small size.