COPPERY SUNBIRD
Cinnyris cupreus
DESCRIPTION
The Coppery Sunbird (Cinnyris cupreus) is a small, vibrant bird known for its striking iridescent plumage, which varies from coppery red to green depending on the angle of light. Males are particularly colorful, showcasing a bright metallic sheen, while females are more subdued in coloration, typically featuring olive-brown feathers. This species is highly active and often seen flitting among flowers, where it feeds on nectar and insects, playing a crucial role in pollination.
FUN FACTS
- The Coppery Sunbird is known for its remarkable ability to hover in place while feeding, similar to a hummingbird
- This unique feeding behavior allows it to access nectar from flowers that are not easily reachable by other birds
- | During courtship, male Coppery Sunbirds perform elaborate displays, showcasing their vibrant plumage to attract females
- These displays often involve rapid flight and vocalizations, making them a fascinating sight in their natural habitat
QUICK INFO
LifespanUp to 5 years in the wild.
Average Weight10-15 g
Average Length10-12 cm
Diet TypeOmnivore
Social StructureTypically solitary or found in pairs, especially during the breeding season.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring to early summer
- Habitat
- Coppery Sunbirds inhabit a range of environments, including savannas, woodlands, and gardens. They are often found in areas with abundant flowering plants, which provide their primary food source.
- Biomes
- Savanna, Tropical Rainforest, Woodland
- Native Range
- The Coppery Sunbird is native to parts of sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in regions from Senegal to Ethiopia and down to South Africa.
- Continent
- Africa
- Countries
- Senegal, Gambia, Guinea, Mali, Nigeria, Cameroon, Ethiopia, South Africa
- Diet
- The Coppery Sunbird primarily feeds on nectar from various flowering plants, but it also consumes small insects and spiders for protein. This diet allows it to thrive in diverse habitats where flowering plants are abundant.
- Diet Type
- Omnivore
- Favorite Food
- nectar, small insects
- Social Structure
- Typically solitary or found in pairs, especially during the breeding season.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1-2
- Territorial
- 1
LC
LC
10-15 g
Weight
10-12 cm
Length
- Coloration
- Males exhibit bright coppery-red and green plumage, while females are more muted with olive-brown tones.
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males are more colorful than females.
- Lifespan
- Up to 5 years in the wild.
- Offspring per Birth
- 2-3 eggs
- Sexual Maturity
- 1 year
- Breeding Season
- Spring to early summer
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently stable, with no significant declines reported.
- Wild Population Estimate
- Unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Habitat loss due to agricultural expansion and urbanization poses a threat to the Coppery Sunbird. Additionally, climate change may impact the availability of flowering plants.
- Predators
- Common predators include larger birds of prey, snakes, and domestic cats.
- Defense Mechanisms
- Coppery Sunbirds use their agility and speed to evade predators, often darting quickly from flower to flower.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon