Backyard Birds

Collared Sunbirds (Hedydipna collaris)

The Collared Sunbirds, (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.

 

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.

Collared Sunbird flight is fast and direct on their short wings.

 
 
 

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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