Neergaard's Sunbird

In the sun-dappled forests of Mozambique and South Africa, one may chance upon the Neergaard's sunbird, a diminutive avian jewel named in honor of Paul Neergaard. The male of the species is resplendent with a metallic green head, back, and throat, complemented by black wings, a blue rump, and a brownish-black tail. Not to be overlooked are his yellow pectoral tufts, a narrow blue collar, a scarlet lower breast, and a black belly. The female, though more subdued in coloration, possesses a greyish-brown head and upper parts, an olive-brown rump, and a dark brown tail, with a pale supercilium lending a touch of elegance. Both sexes share dark brown eyes and black beaks and legs, with juveniles resembling the female in their plumage.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify Neergaard's sunbird, look for the male's distinctive metallic green and scarlet plumage and the female's more understated greyish-brown tones. The presence of yellow pectoral tufts and a blue collar can be particularly telling. Observers should also note the bird's relatively short beak, a feature that sets it apart from some of its relatives.

Habitat

This species favors the subtropical or tropical dry forests near the coast, where it flits about the canopy, adding a dash of color to the dry woodland and coastal scrub it calls home.

Distribution

Neergaard's sunbird is a bird of limited range, found along the coastal belt stretching from Inhambane in southern Mozambique to Richards Bay in northern KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. It is known to inhabit two distinct populations in Mozambique, one north of the Limpopo River and another south of Maputo.

Behaviour

This sunbird is often seen in the company of the amethyst sunbird, sharing the high canopy as it goes about its daily activities. It is a bird that is common in some locations within its range, though its overall population is facing challenges.

Diet and Feeding

A nectar-feeder by nature, Neergaard's sunbird also supplements its diet with insects and spiders, foraging in the treetops to sustain its energetic lifestyle.

Conservation status

With a moderately small population that is experiencing a decline due to habitat destruction, Neergaard's sunbird has been assessed as "Near Threatened" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Its continued existence is a reminder of the delicate balance within its coastal forest realm.