Description Purple sunbird

purple sunbird (female)

this small sunbird has relatively short bill, dark , short square ended tail distinctive sexual dimorphism. less 10 cm long have down-curve bill brush-tipped tubular tongues aid in nectar feeding. male glossy metallic bluish purplish black on upper parts wings appearing dark brown. breeding male has underparts of same purplish black, non-breeding males may show central streak of black on yellow underparts. (birds in eclipse plumage once designated species, c. currucaria.) in breeding plumage, male can confused syntopic loten s sunbird has long bill , distinctive broad maroon band on breast. breeding males show yellow pectoral tufts in displays. there patch of bright blue on shoulder of breeding males. maroon shine on feathers of collar around neck visible during breeding seasons.

females olive brown above yellowish underside. there pale supercilium beyond eye. there darkish eye stripe. throat , breast yellow becoming pale towards vent. outer tail feathers tipped in white both in male , female.

they seen in pairs or small groups , aggregations may found in gardens suitable flowers. feed on nectar take fruits , insects. groups of many 40 50 individuals have been noted.