- general description
- appearance
- the olive-backed sunbird is a small, brightly colored bird with a distinctive olive-green back.
- males have a bright metallic blue throat and upper chest, while females are more subdued with yellow underparts and a grayish-olive back.
- both sexes have a slender, curved bill adapted for nectar feeding.
- size
- measures about 10-12 cm in length.
- typically weighs around 6-10 grams.
- behavior
- known for its active and agile behavior, often seen flitting between flowers in search of nectar.
- emits a high-pitched, rapid series of chirps and whistles.
- males often perform elaborate flight displays to attract females during the breeding season.
- habitat
- range
- found in southeast asia, including indonesia, malaysia, the philippines, and thailand.
- environment
- inhabits a variety of environments including gardens, mangroves, forests, and urban areas.
- often found in areas with abundant flowering plants.
- diet
- primarily nectarivorous, feeding on the nectar of various flowers.
- also consumes insects and spiders, particularly during the breeding season when they need more protein.
- breeding
- nesting
- builds a hanging, purse-shaped nest made of plant fibers, leaves, and spider silk.
- nests are usually suspended from tree branches or other structures, often well-hidden among foliage.
- reproduction
- breeding season varies across its range but generally occurs during periods of abundant flower availability.
- female lays 1-3 eggs, which are incubated for about two weeks.
- both parents participate in feeding the chicks until they fledge.
- conservation status
- currently not considered endangered or vulnerable.
- listed as least concern by the iucn due to its wide range and stable population.
- interesting facts
- the olive-backed sunbird is highly adaptable and can thrive in both natural and urban environments.
- its long, curved bill and brush-tipped tongue are specially adapted for extracting nectar from flowers, making it an important pollinator in its ecosystem.