Overview
Among flowering trees and shrubs, a sudden flash of scarlet and metallic green may reveal a scarlet-chested sunbird. Small, energetic and constantly on the move, these birds bring vivid colour to Tanzania’s woodland edges, gardens and open savannah.
Adult males are unmistakable, with glossy black plumage, a brilliant scarlet breast and an iridescent green crown and throat. Females are much less conspicuous, with plain grey-brown plumage that provides camouflage while nesting.
Scarlet-chested sunbirds feed mainly on nectar, using their long, curved bills to reach deep into flowers. They also catch insects and other small invertebrates, particularly when feeding chicks. Although they sometimes hover briefly, they usually perch or cling to vegetation while feeding.
Behaviour & How to Identify
Look for a small bird with a slender, down-curved bill and rapid, direct flight. The adult male’s bright scarlet chest contrasts sharply with his glossy black body, while green iridescence becomes visible on the crown and throat when caught by the light.
Females are greyish brown, with paler underparts and little obvious patterning. They can be harder to identify and may resemble females of other sunbird species, so bill shape, habitat and accompanying males are useful clues.
Males may defend particularly productive flowering trees or shrubs, chasing away rival sunbirds and occasionally confronting larger birds. The female constructs a hanging, pouch-shaped nest from grass, plant fibres, bark, leaves and spider silk, usually suspended from a branch.
Interesting facts
They help pollinate flowering plants. Pollen clings to their bills and feathers as they move between nectar-rich blossoms.
Males can be fiercely territorial. A valuable flowering tree may be defended against rival sunbirds and other nectar-feeding birds.
Their nests hang like small pouches. The female weaves together plant fibres and spider silk, often adding leaves, bark and other material for camouflage.