The Javan sunbird or scarlet sunbird is a species of bird in the family Nectariniidae. It is endemic to Java and Bali, Indonesia. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest and subtropical or tropical moist montane forest.
Region
Sunda Islands, Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs in subtropical and tropical moist lowland and montane forests, as well as forest edges, secondary growth, and well-vegetated gardens. Frequently visits flowering trees and shrubs in clearings and along streams. Uses mid-canopy to canopy levels but will descend to understory blossoms. Tolerates moderately altered habitats provided nectar sources remain abundant.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Javan sunbird is a small nectar-feeding bird endemic to Java and Bali, Indonesia. It has often been treated as part of the Crimson Sunbird complex, but many authorities now recognize it as distinct. Males are brilliantly colored and defend rich flowering patches, while both sexes supplement nectar with small insects, especially when feeding young.
Temperament
active and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with darting, hovering pauses at flowers
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs; small family parties occur outside the breeding peak. Males defend nectar-rich shrubs and trees from rivals. The nest is a delicate, hanging pouch of plant fibers and spider silk, often suspended from a slender branch or palm frond.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
High, thin twitters and sharp “tsip” notes delivered in short series. Males give buzzy trills and sweet, tinkling phrases from exposed perches near flowering trees.
Plumage
Male shows glossy, iridescent reds on head and breast with metallic green and blue accents, olive upperparts, and yellowish lower belly; long, slightly decurved bill. Female is olive-brown above with yellowish underparts and a plainer appearance. Both sexes have fine, sleek plumage suited to quick, agile movements among flowers.
Diet
Primarily feeds on nectar from a variety of blossoms, probing with its slender, decurved bill. Also takes small arthropods such as gnats, caterpillars, and spiders, especially during breeding to provide protein for chicks. Occasionally consumes soft fruits or honeydew.
Preferred Environment
Feeds at flowering trees, forest edges, and gardens, moving rapidly between blossoms. Will glean insects from foliage and sally short distances to catch tiny flying prey.
