Purple-throated Sunbird

Overview

The purple-throated sunbird (Leptocoma sperata) is a very small bird in the family Nectariniidae. It is assessed as a species of least concern by the IUCN Red List, despite being relatively poorly known.

Identification

• Males: Distinctive with dark upperparts, a greenish crown and rump, a deep purple throat and upper chest, and a bright red lower chest and upper belly.
• Males (variant): In Sulu and west Mindanao, the red on the chest is replaced by yellow with an orange wash.
• Females: Drab with a yellow brow and chest and a brown wing, resembling several other female sunbirds.
• Size and Call: Very small bird; call is a sharp upslurred "tsweep!".

Habitat

This species inhabits lowland tropical forests, tropical mangrove forests, and gardens or plantations mostly in the lowlands. Its range includes Maratua and the Philippines.

Diet

The bird feeds largely on nectar, though it also takes insects, especially when feeding young. It usually perches to feed, though it can hover like a hummingbird.

Did you know?

The specific name sperata is Latin for "bride" or "betrothed".