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The [[Variable Sunbird]] is similar, but is larger with a longer bill. The male [[Variable Sunbird]] has a braoder breast band and orange or red pectoral tufts, and the female is greyish brown above. | The [[Variable Sunbird]] is similar, but is larger with a longer bill. The male [[Variable Sunbird]] has a braoder breast band and orange or red pectoral tufts, and the female is greyish brown above. | ||
==Distribution== | ==Distribution== | ||
| − | Sub-Saharan Africa. | + | Sub-Saharan [[Africa]]. |
==Taxonomy== | ==Taxonomy== | ||
This is one of the four Sunbirds that have recently been moved to the genus ''Hedydipna'' from the genus ''Anthreptes''. | This is one of the four Sunbirds that have recently been moved to the genus ''Hedydipna'' from the genus ''Anthreptes''. | ||
Revision as of 17:49, 16 February 2009
- Hedydipna collaris
Anthreptes collaris
Identification
Length 10-11 cm, mass 7-9 g. Male: Upperparts bright metallic green, tail darker. Flight feathers dark brown edged green. Chin and throat bright metallic green, separated from the bright yellow breast and belly by a blue-purple band. Pectoral tufts yellow. Bill short and slightly decurved (culmen 14 mm). Female: Similar to the male, except that the entire underparts are yellow.
The Variable Sunbird is similar, but is larger with a longer bill. The male Variable Sunbird has a braoder breast band and orange or red pectoral tufts, and the female is greyish brown above.
Distribution
Sub-Saharan Africa.
Taxonomy
This is one of the four Sunbirds that have recently been moved to the genus Hedydipna from the genus Anthreptes.
Nine subspecies are recognised, based on variation in plumage coloration.
Habitat
Forest, forest edges, dense woodland, and wooded gardens.
Behaviour
Usually in pairs that remain territorial year-round. Highly active; can be inquisitive and confiding, but soon darts off. Flight is rapid and direct (rather than the jinking flight typical of most Sunbirds). Joins mixed-bird feeding parties. Food includes insects, spiders, snails, nectar, and juices of fruits; more insectivorous than most other Sunbirds. Known to split open corolla tubes that are too long for it short bill, so that it can access nectar.
References
Hockey PAR, Dean WRJ & Ryan PG (eds) 2005. Robert's Birds of Southern Africa, 7th edition. Cape Town: John Voelcker Bird Book Fund. ISBN 0620340533
