The Abyssinian sunbird, formerly the shining sunbird, is a species of passerine bird in the sunbird family Nectariniidae. The Arabian sunbird was formerly treated as a subspecies.
Region
Horn of Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs widely in the Ethiopian Highlands and adjacent lowlands, extending through Eritrea, Djibouti, Somalia, and South Sudan, with local populations in suitable bush and savanna. It favors dry scrub, Acacia and Commiphora woodland, rocky slopes with scattered shrubs, and cultivated areas with flowering plants. The species adapts well to gardens and village edges where nectar sources are available. It is generally sedentary with local movements tracking blooms.
Altitude Range
0–3000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Abyssinian sunbird is a small, fast-moving nectar specialist that often hovers briefly at flowers but typically perches to feed. Males show striking iridescence that shifts with light, while females are much duller for camouflage at the nest. It is an important pollinator of native shrubs and aloes across the Horn of Africa. The Arabian sunbird has been split by some authorities after formerly being treated as a subspecies.
Temperament
active and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with frequent perching; capable of brief hovering at flowers
Social Behavior
Often seen singly or in pairs, occasionally in loose groups at rich flower patches. Pairs defend nectar sources and small territories. The nest is a small, pendant, oval structure of plant fibers and spider silk placed in shrubs or low trees. Breeding behavior is typical of sunbirds, with the female doing most of the nest construction.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a rapid, thin twittering series interspersed with buzzy notes. Calls include high-pitched tseep and sharp chits given while foraging and during territorial chases.
Plumage
Male with glossy, iridescent green head and throat, a distinct violet to purple breast band, and dark, blackish underparts; upperparts appear dark with a metallic sheen. Female is brownish-olive above with pale yellowish underparts and faint streaking. Both sexes have a slender, decurved bill suited for nectar feeding.
Diet
Primarily feeds on nectar from aloes, Leonotis, Acacia blossoms, and other flowering shrubs, using its brush-tipped tongue. Supplements its diet with small insects and spiders, especially when feeding young. Will also take small berries occasionally.
Preferred Environment
Forages at flowering shrubs and trees along woodland edges, rocky scrub, gardens, and village plantings. Frequently visits seasonal blooms and can concentrate where nectar is abundant.
