The flame-breasted sunbird is a species of bird in the family Nectariniidae. It is found on Timor and other islands, primarily in the Indonesian province of Nusa Tenggara Timur. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests.
Region
Lesser Sunda Islands, Wallacea
Typical Environment
Occurs on Timor and several neighboring islands in the eastern Lesser Sundas, including areas dominated by subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest. It frequents forest edges, secondary growth, and wooded gardens where flowering shrubs and trees are abundant. The species also uses coastal scrub and plantation mosaics, especially when nectar sources are plentiful. It is generally common in suitable habitats and tolerates moderate disturbance.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This small sunbird is noted for the male’s vivid flame-orange breast set against dark, iridescent upperparts. It plays an important role as a pollinator, regularly visiting flowering trees and shrubs. Like many sunbirds, it can briefly hover but typically perches to feed. Females are duller and more olive-yellow below, aiding camouflage at the nest.
Illustration of male (top) and female
Temperament
active and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief hovering at flowers
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly, in pairs, or in small loose groups around rich nectar sources. Males defend flowering shrubs and trees, chasing intruders. The nest is a small, suspended purse-shaped structure made of plant fibers, spider silk, and leaf fragments with a side entrance.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
High, thin, tinkling notes interspersed with rapid twittering phrases. Calls include sharp tseep and tzik contact notes given frequently while foraging.
Plumage
Male with glossy dark upperparts and a striking flame-orange to apricot breast blending into yellowish underparts; subtle metallic green or bluish gloss on head and mantle. Female is olive-brown above with yellow to yellow-olive underparts, lacking the male’s bright breast. Both sexes have a slender, decurved bill adapted to nectar feeding.
Diet
Feeds mainly on nectar from a variety of flowering trees, shrubs, and vines, probing blooms with its curved bill and brush-tipped tongue. Supplements its diet with small insects and spiders, especially during breeding when protein is needed for nestlings. Also gleans arthropods from foliage and will sally short distances to catch tiny flying insects.
Preferred Environment
Concentrates around flowering forest edges, secondary woodland, and village gardens where nectar is abundant. Often uses mid-story to canopy-level blossoms but will also visit low shrubs and ornamental plantings.
