The copper-throated sunbird is a small passerine within the Nectariniidae family. They sustain themselves by consuming nectar as well as small invertebrates. As a member of the Nectariniidae family, they possess downward curved beaks and have pectoral tufts of yellow feathers. They are found in south-eastern Asia, predominantly in coastal regions.
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs along coastal lowlands, especially in mangrove forests, tidal creeks, and estuaries. Frequently forages at the edges of mangroves and in adjacent coastal scrub, beach forest, and gardens near the shoreline. It follows flowering trees and shrubs, moving through canopy and midstory. In some areas it persists in human-modified coastal habitats provided rich nectar sources remain.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Males flash a brilliant coppery throat that shifts with the light, while females are much duller and olive-yellow. Strongly tied to mangrove ecosystems, this species is often seen around flowering Sonneratia and Rhizophora trees. Males display yellow pectoral tufts during courtship and when defending feeding territories. Habitat loss of coastal mangroves can impact local populations.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, with males defending rich nectar sources from rivals. The nest is a hanging, purse-like structure suspended from a slender branch or palm frond, often near water. The female typically builds and incubates; the male may assist in feeding nestlings.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are high, thin tsee and tinkling notes interspersed with buzzy chips. The song is a quick series of high-pitched, metallic twitters delivered from a perch within the canopy.
Plumage
Male is dark and glossy with iridescent green sheen and a striking metallic copper throat and upper breast; wings and tail appear blackish with a bluish gloss. Female is olive-brown above with yellowish underparts and a paler throat. Both sexes have slender, decurved bills and short rounded wings.
Diet
Feeds primarily on nectar from mangrove blossoms such as Sonneratia and Bruguiera, as well as coastal flowering shrubs and trees. Supplements nectar with small insects and spiders gleaned from foliage and bark. Occasionally hawks tiny flying insects in short sallies, especially when feeding young.
Preferred Environment
Forages in mangrove canopy and along forest edges, visiting nectar-rich flowers at varying heights. Also exploits flowering trees in nearby coastal parks, villages, and plantations close to tidal habitats.
