Olive-bellied Sunbird

Overview

The olive-bellied sunbird is a small species in the family Nectariniidae, widely distributed across African tropical rainforests. Although its population is declining due to habitat loss, it remains a common species classified as Least Concern by the IUCN.

Identification

• Adult males possess a metallic green head, back, and throat, with dark brown wings and a metallic blue rump.
• A distinct narrow blue breast band sits above a wider scarlet patch, accompanied by lemon-yellow pectoral tufts and an olive belly.
• Distinguishable from the similar tiny sunbird by a larger beak and the absence of blue bars within the red breast plumage.
• Females are olive-brown above with underparts that are olive-washed with yellow, featuring less streaking than the female tiny sunbird.

Habitat

Primarily found in African tropical rainforests, with a range extending throughout West and Central Africa as well as into Southern and East Africa.

Diet

This species forages in the lower parts of the canopy, feeding on a diverse diet that includes caterpillars, beetles, spiders, nectar, flowers, and seeds.

Did you know?

The nest is described as a straggly affair constructed from grasses, strips of bark, and leaves, with incubation duties performed entirely by the female.