Bronze Sunbird

Overview

The bronze sunbird (Nectarinia kilimensis) is a species of bird in the family Nectariniidae, native to the Bié Plateau in Angola and eastern Afromontane forests. It is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• Males appear predominantly black in light, though they possess bronze-and-green undertones.
• Females display a pale eyebrow and a yellowish patch on the lower belly with fine streaking.
• Some Angolan subspecies feature a distinctive green streak that distinguishes them from similar local species.
• Song consists of a jumble of twittering notes followed by cleaner whistles, typically heard in the early morning or midday.

Habitat

Found across various African countries including Angola, Kenya, Tanzania, and Zambia, the species prefers remote environments such as savannas, dried shrubland, and subtropical forests. It is most abundant in the edges of Afromontane forests, mountain sides, and Zimbabwe's eastern highlands, while avoiding populated areas.

Diet

The diet is restricted to nectar, spiders, and insects, specifically including ants, beetles, bugs, wasps, bees, flies, and termites.

Did you know?

The species has benefited from the introduction of Protea farming in Zimbabwe, as the poisonous flowers provide an immense amount of nectar that does not affect the birds.