The Apo sunbird is a species of bird in the sunbird family Nectariniidae. It is endemic to the island of Mindanao in the Philippines.It is found in tropical moist montane forests above 1,500 meters above sea level.
Region
Mindanao highlands, Philippines
Typical Environment
Occurs in tropical moist montane and mossy forests on Mindanao, with strong association to Mount Apo and other high peaks. Most frequently found along forest edges, clearings with flowering shrubs, and ridges with stunted mossy growth. It will also use secondary growth and gardens near intact forest if nectar sources are abundant. The species is specialized for high elevations and is seldom recorded at lower montane levels.
Altitude Range
1500–2900 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Apo sunbird is restricted to high-elevation forests on Mindanao, Philippines, especially around Mount Apo. Like other sunbirds, it feeds mainly on nectar but also takes small insects for protein, particularly during breeding. It often visits flowering shrubs and trees along forest edges and clearings. Its curved bill and quick, hovering forays help it probe tubular blossoms efficiently.
An Apo Sunbird ssp. boltoni
Temperament
active and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief hovering at flowers
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks along forest edges. Builds a pendant, fibrous nest suspended from a twig or vine, often near protective foliage. During breeding, pairs defend nectar-rich patches and increase insect gleaning to feed young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are thin, high-pitched twitters and metallic seep notes delivered from exposed perches. Calls accelerate into brief, tinkling trills during territory defense and courtship.
Plumage
Small sunbird with mostly olive-green upperparts and yellowish underparts; males appear slightly brighter with subtle iridescent tones, females duller and more uniform.
Diet
Primarily nectar from a variety of montane flowering plants, including shrubs and small trees. Supplements its diet with small insects and spiders, especially when feeding chicks. Probes tubular flowers with its decurved bill and will glean arthropods from foliage and bark.
Preferred Environment
Feeds along forest edges, clearings, ridgelines, and mossy forest canopies where blooms are concentrated. Also visits flowering plants in secondary growth and gardens near montane forest.
