The crimson sunbird is a species of bird in the sunbird family which feed largely on nectar. They may also take insects, especially when feeding their young. Flight is fast and direct on their short wings. Most species can take nectar by hovering like a hummingbird, but usually perch to feed. It is the unofficial national bird of Singapore, as declared by the Nature Society Singapore.
Region
South and Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs from the Indian subcontinent through mainland Southeast Asia to the Greater Sunda Islands. Common in forest edges, secondary growth, gardens, parks, mangroves, and plantations with flowering shrubs and trees. Frequently visits ornamental blooms in urban areas and rural villages. Often tracks seasonal flowering, shifting locally to areas with abundant nectar.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Crimson sunbirds are small, fast-flying nectar specialists that also take insects, especially when feeding their young. They can hover briefly like hummingbirds but more often perch to sip nectar. Males in breeding plumage show elongated central tail feathers and brilliant reds that make them highly conspicuous. It is the unofficial national bird of Singapore, as declared by the Nature Society (Singapore).
Male Feeding on Hibiscus sp.
A male Crimson Sunbird
Temperament
active and territorial
Flight Pattern
fast and direct with short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or in small loose groups at flowering trees. Males can be strongly territorial around rich nectar sources. The nest is a small pendant purse or pouch suspended from a leaf or branch, often bound with spider silk and lined with soft fibers. Both parents typically care for the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are high, thin tseet and twittering notes delivered rapidly. Song is a short, squeaky, metallic series, often interspersed with sharp contact calls around flowering trees.
Plumage
Male is vividly crimson on the head, throat, and upper breast with contrasting olive to yellowish underparts and a dark, glossy bluish tail; elongated central tail feathers in breeding plumage. Female is olive-green above with yellowish underparts and lacks the male’s brilliant reds and tail streamers.
Diet
Primarily consumes nectar from a variety of flowering trees, shrubs, and vines, including cultivated ornamentals. Also gleans or hawks small insects and spiders, adding protein especially during breeding. Acts as a pollinator by transferring pollen while probing flowers. Occasionally takes small fruit or honeydew when available.
Preferred Environment
Feeds at forest edges, gardens, parks, and secondary growth where flowering plants are abundant. Forages from understory to canopy, often moving quickly between blossoms. Will hover briefly to access deep flowers but usually perches while feeding.
