Crimson-backed Sunbird

Overview

The crimson-backed sunbird (Leptocoma minima) is a tiny sunbird endemic to the Western Ghats of India. It is a resident species found primarily in forests but is particularly attracted to gardens at the forest edge that contain suitable flower-bearing plants.

Identification

• Tiny birds, only 8 cm long, with medium-length thin down-curved bills.
• Adult males feature velvety red on the mantle and wing coverts, a broad red breast band, and a shiny green crown.
• Distinguished from the larger purple-rumped sunbird by darker maroon upper sides and whitish flanks and vent.
• Calls include short chik notes and longer chee-chee-which-chee sequences.

Habitat

Endemic to the Western Ghats of India, where it is a resident breeder. While found in forests, these birds are particularly attracted to gardens at the edge of forests or plantations that have suitable flowering plants.

Diet

Feeds mainly on nectar but also takes insects, especially for feeding their young. Males establish and defend feeding territories on flower-bearing shrubs and trees, defending plants with high nectar content more vigorously.

Did you know?

Despite their small size, these birds can be killed by attacks from insects such as praying mantises.