Marico Sunbird

The Marico sunbird, Cinnyris mariquensis, is a vibrant member of the Nectariniidae family, gracing the woodlands of the eastern and southern Afrotropics with its presence. This species exhibits sexual dimorphism, with males and females donning distinct plumages that can be observed in the natural splendor of Marakele and Mapungubwe National Parks.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify the Marico sunbird, one should look for the characteristic features that set it apart from other sunbirds. The males typically boast a more colorful appearance compared to the females, which is a common trait among sunbirds. Observers should note the specific coloration and markings when identifying these birds in the field.

Habitat

The Marico sunbird is predominantly a woodland species, thriving in environments that offer a blend of trees and open spaces. However, it has shown remarkable adaptability, also making its home in dry, arid savanna landscapes.

Distribution

This sunbird has a broad range across several African countries, including Angola, Botswana, Burundi, Eritrea, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Kenya, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, Somalia, South Africa, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Notably, there has been a recent southward range expansion into the Northern Cape and Free State provinces of South Africa.

Behaviour

The Marico sunbird is a local migrant within its range, often moving in response to environmental changes such as droughts or floods. It exhibits a preference for flying through natural landscapes like rivers and valleys, which provide ample foraging opportunities during travel. Additionally, these birds can utilize landscaped areas in towns and suburbs as secondary habitats.

Conservation Status

The Marico sunbird is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Its population size has not been quantified, but it is not believed to be below the vulnerable threshold. The species benefits from conservation regions throughout its range, reducing the likelihood of extinction.