Collared Sunbird (Hedydipna collaris)

The Collared Sunbird, (Hedydipna collaris) is a common breeder across most of sub-Saharan Africa. It is a seasonal migrant within its range.

This Sunbird is usually found in forests near water.

Collared Sunbird

Collared Sunbirds

Diet / Feeding

They feed largely on nectar, although they will also take insects, especially when feeding young.

Most species can take nectar by hovering like a humming bird, but usually perch to feed most of the time.

Breeding / Nesting

Two or three eggs are laid in a suspended nest in a tree.

Description

Collared Sunbirds are tiny, only 9-10 cm long. They have short thin down-curved bills and brush-tipped tubular tongues, both adaptations to nectar feeding.

The adult male has glossy green upperparts and head with a yellow belly and narrow purple breast band.

The female is a duller green above and entirely yellow below.

Sunbird flight is fast and direct on their short wings.

Collared Sunbird
Collared Sunbird
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Gordon Ramel

Gordon is an ecologist with two degrees from Exeter University. He's also a teacher, a poet and the owner of 1,152 books. Oh - and he wrote this website.

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