Southern Double-collared Sunbird

The Southern double-collared sunbird, or lesser double-collared sunbird, Cinnyris chalybeus, is a diminutive and vibrant passerine bird endemic to southern Africa. The adult male is particularly striking with a glossy, metallic green head, throat, upper breast, and back. A brilliant red band, edged with a narrow metallic blue stripe, adorns the chest. The underparts are predominantly whitish, and during displays, yellow shoulder tufts may be revealed. Females and juveniles are more subdued in coloration, with the female sporting brown upperparts and yellowish-grey underparts.

Identification Tips

When identifying the male Southern double-collared sunbird, look for its smaller stature, narrower red chest band, and shorter bill compared to the similar greater double-collared sunbird. The female can be distinguished from other species by her greyer underparts compared to the orange-breasted sunbird and a darker shade than that of the dusky sunbird.

Habitat

This sunbird is commonly found in a variety of settings including gardens, fynbos, forests, and coastal scrub. It is a versatile resident of its southern African home.

Distribution

The species is mainly resident throughout its range, with some partial migration noted in the northeastern areas. It is a familiar sight across its habitat, gracing many a garden and natural landscape with its presence.

Behaviour

The Southern double-collared sunbird is often observed alone or in small groups. It exhibits a fast and direct flight, utilizing its short wings adeptly. While it primarily feeds on nectar, it also consumes fruit and occasionally insects and spiders, especially when feeding its young. It is capable of hovering like a hummingbird but typically prefers to perch while feeding.

Song & Calls

The call of this sunbird is a distinctive hard 'chee-chee', while its song is a high-pitched medley of tinkling notes that vary in pitch and tempo, lasting for several seconds.

Breeding

Breeding occurs from April to December, varying by region. The species constructs a closed oval nest from grass, lichen, and other plant materials, all bound together with spider webs. The nest features a side entrance, sometimes adorned with a porch, and is lined with soft materials such as wool, plant down, and feathers.

Diet and Feeding

The Southern double-collared sunbird's diet consists mainly of nectar, which it gathers from flowers. It is also known to consume fruit and, particularly when feeding offspring, will hunt for insects and spiders.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List categorizes the Southern double-collared sunbird as Least Concern, indicating a stable population without significant threats to its survival at present.