The common sunbird-asity or sunbird asity is a species of bird in the family Philepittidae. It is endemic to Madagascar. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests.
Region
Eastern Madagascar
Typical Environment
Occurs widely in the humid evergreen forests along the eastern escarpment and lowlands of Madagascar. It favors primary and well-developed secondary lowland rainforest, but also uses forest edges and flowering trees in disturbed areas. Birds forage mainly in the mid- to upper canopy but will descend to understory blossoms when available. The species follows seasonal flowering, moving locally within continuous forest to track nectar sources.
Altitude Range
0–1600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The common sunbird-asity is a tiny nectar-feeding bird of Madagascar that shows striking convergent evolution with sunbirds, despite being in a different family (Philepittidae). Males develop vivid bare blue facial skin and more contrasting plumage in breeding season, while females remain more subdued. Its long, decurved bill and brush-tipped tongue help it extract nectar from tubular flowers. It also takes small arthropods, especially when feeding young.
Temperament
active and agile
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with frequent hovering
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs, sometimes in loose association with mixed-species foraging flocks. Courtship involves display by the male, emphasizing the bright facial skin. Nests are small, neatly woven structures placed in foliage, and both parents attend the young. Territoriality centers on rich flowering sources.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of thin, high-pitched whistles and tsee notes, often delivered from cover near flowering trees. Calls are sharp and sibilant, carrying well in the forest canopy.
