The long-billed spiderhunter is a species of bird in the family Nectariniidae. It is found in Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests and subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs in Brunei, Indonesia (notably Borneo and Sumatra), Malaysia (Peninsular and Bornean states), and southern Thailand. Favors primary and well-structured secondary forests, including edges, riverine forest, and forested foothills. Often forages in the lower to mid canopy where flowering shrubs and gingers are abundant. Also visits gardens and plantations adjacent to forest when suitable nectar sources are present.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This spiderhunter uses its exceptionally long, decurved bill to probe flowers for nectar and to pick spiders and insects from foliage. It is known to pierce the bases of tubular flowers to access nectar (‘nectar robbing’). Nests are cleverly stitched under large leaves using spider silk and plant fibers. Typically shy, it is most often detected by its sharp, high-pitched calls.
Temperament
shy and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick, direct dashes between flowering trees
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs while foraging, occasionally loosely associating with mixed-species flocks. The nest is a small purse-like structure suspended beneath a large leaf, stitched with spider silk and plant fibers. Breeding pairs are territorial around rich nectar sources.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are sharp, high-pitched tseet or tzik notes delivered in short series. Also gives thin, metallic calls and rapid chatter when agitated or during territorial encounters.
