The dusky sunbird is a species of bird in the family Nectariniidae. This relatively dull sunbird is found in arid savanna, thickets and shrubland in Angola, Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa.
Region
Southern Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs from southwestern Angola through much of Namibia and into arid parts of Botswana and northwestern South Africa. It favors semi-desert, Karoo shrublands, thornveld, dry riverbeds, and thickets, as well as gardens with flowering shrubs. The species is tolerant of heat and drought and often concentrates where nectar sources are seasonally abundant. Local movements track flowering events and water availability.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A hardy sunbird adapted to arid landscapes, it often follows blooming aloes and other nectar-rich shrubs and trees. It can hover briefly like a hummingbird but usually feeds while perched. Males and females are both relatively plain compared to other sunbirds, which helps in dry, dusty habitats. As an important pollinator, it aids the reproduction of many desert and savanna plants.
Dusky sunbird near Halali in Etosha National Park Namibia
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief hovering
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs or small family groups, becoming more loosely gregarious around abundant flowering plants. Males defend nectar resources with short chases and displays. The nest is a pendant, purse-like structure of plant fibers and spider silk with a side entrance, usually placed in a bush; the female builds and incubates while both parents feed the young.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Calls are thin, high-pitched tsee and tzip notes, with a dry chatter during disputes. The song is a modest, tinkling series of high notes and trills delivered from a perch. Vocalizations carry well in open scrub.
Plumage
Overall plain, dusky-brown to brownish-grey with subtle gloss; underparts slightly paler and often grayish. Males may show a faint metallic sheen on the head and throat in good light, while females are duller and more uniformly brown. Feathers are smooth with minimal patterning, giving a uniformly dusky look.
Diet
Primarily takes nectar from aloes, eucalypts, and a variety of native shrubs and trees. Supplements nectar with small insects and spiders, especially when feeding young. Gleans insects from foliage and occasionally hawks for tiny flying insects near flowering plants. Will visit gardens and campgrounds where ornamental plants bloom.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in flowering shrubs, thorny thickets, riparian trees, and semi-desert scrub where nectar sources are concentrated. Often forages at mid-level perches, making short sallies or brief hovers to probe flowers.
