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Overview
Congo sunbird

Congo sunbird

Wikipedia

The Congo sunbird is a species of bird in the family Nectariniidae. It is found in Republic of the Congo and Democratic Republic of the Congo.

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Distribution

Region

Central Africa (Congo Basin)

Typical Environment

Occurs in lowland tropical forests, riverine woodlands, forest edges, and secondary growth. It favors flowering trees and shrubs along clearings and waterways. Often found from the understory to mid-canopy where blossoms are abundant. It can also visit village gardens and plantations when nectar sources are available.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 1500 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size11–13 cm
Wing Span15–18 cm
Male Weight0.008 kg
Female Weight0.007 kg
Life Expectancy5 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

The Congo sunbird is a small nectar-feeding bird of the Congo Basin’s forests. Males show striking iridescent plumage, while females are plainer and better camouflaged. Like most sunbirds, it perches to feed at flowers but can hover briefly. It also takes small insects and spiders, especially when feeding young.

Behaviour

Temperament

active and territorial

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with brief hovering at flowers

Social Behavior

Usually seen singly or in pairs, with males defending nectar-rich feeding territories. Pairs build a pendant, purse-like nest of plant fibers bound with spider silk. They often nest in shrubs or low branches near reliable flower sources.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A series of thin, high-pitched twitters and rapid chattering notes. Calls include sharp tseep and tinkling phrases delivered from exposed perches.

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