Least Concern Birds

Amethyst Sunbird

Chalcomitra amethystina

Iridescent sunbird feeding on nectar and insects in African forests.

Scientific name	Chalcomitra amethystina
Conservation status	Least Concern
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Nectariniidae
Size	Male: body length about 12-14 cm, weight about 7-9 g; Female: slightly smaller body length, weight about 6-8 g

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How to identify

Male has an overall purple-blue metallic sheen, chest and abdomen are amethyst-colored; female is darker, mainly olive-brown; slender curved bill suitable for nectar feeding; short tail feathers, agile in flight; fine bare skin around the eyes

Habitat

Edges of tropical and subtropical forests, shrubs, gardens, and open woodlands

Diet

Mainly feeds on nectar, also preys on small insects and spiders to supplement protein

When it is active

Diurnal, mainly active during the day, more active in early morning and late afternoon

Where it lives

Distributed in East Africa, including Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and neighboring areas; commonly seen in Kenya's Maasai Mara region

How to spot it

Observe near flower clusters in early morning or late afternoon, use binoculars or telephoto lenses to capture nectar feeding behavior

Photography tips

Recommended to use telephoto lenses (300mm or above), choose times with ample natural light, capture moments of nectar feeding and flight, keep background simple to highlight bird's colors

Threats

Habitat destruction and deforestation; reduction of floral resources in some local areas

Similar species

Similar to other species in the genus Cinnyris such as the Copper Sunbird; distinguished by the male amethyst sunbird's more pronounced purple color and slightly larger size

📖 how to spot the amethyst sunbird on safari