Collared Sunbird

Overview

The collared sunbird (Hedydipna collaris) is a tiny passerine bird belonging to the family Nectariniidae. Although it possesses adaptations for nectar feeding, it is primarily insectivorous. It is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• Adults are tiny, measuring only 9–10 cm in length with short, thin, down-curved bills.
• Adult males feature glossy green upperparts and head, a yellow belly, and a narrow purple breast band.
• Females are duller green above with entirely yellow underparts.

Habitat

This species is a common breader across most of sub-Saharan Africa and acts as a seasonal migrant within this range. It inhabits forests located near water sources.

Diet

While sunbirds typically feed on nectar, the collared sunbird is mainly insectivorous. It possesses brush-tipped tubular tongues that are adaptations for nectar feeding, and it usually perches to feed rather than hovering.

Did you know?

Despite being a sunbird with specialized brush-tipped tongues for sipping nectar, the collared sunbird is in fact mainly insectivorous.