The banded green sunbird is a species of bird in the family Nectariniidae. It is endemic to Tanzania.
Region
East African coastal forests of Tanzania
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland evergreen and semi-evergreen coastal forests, forest edges, and secondary growth with abundant flowering trees. It also uses riverine woodland and coastal thickets, and may venture into plantations and gardens when nectar sources are available. The species favors mid- to upper-canopy blooms but will descend to feed in shrubs. Forest fragmentation can isolate populations and limit suitable foraging corridors.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 900 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This small sunbird is restricted to coastal and nearby lowland forests of Tanzania, where males show a fine reddish breast band that sets them apart from other green sunbirds. It feeds mainly on nectar but also takes small insects, often visiting flowering trees and sometimes gardens. Habitat loss and fragmentation of coastal forests are the main threats. It typically perches to feed rather than hovering for long like hummingbirds.
Temperament
active and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief hovering at flowers
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks in the canopy. Pairs defend rich nectar sources and may chase intruders. The nest is a small pendant or suspended purse-like structure, with breeding likely tied to flowering peaks. Both parents attend the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a thin, high-pitched series of tsee-tsee and wiry trills. Calls include sharp chips and rapid twittering notes given while foraging or during chases.
