Loveridge's sunbird is a species of bird in the family Nectariniidae. It is endemic to Tanzania.
Region
Eastern Arc Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs in Tanzanian montane and submontane evergreen forests, forest edges, and adjacent secondary growth. It frequently uses flowering trees along clearings, riverine strips, and old gardens near intact forest. The species forages from the midstory to canopy, occasionally descending to feed on low shrubs. Its range is patchy and tied to tracts of mature or regenerating highland forest with reliable nectar sources.
Altitude Range
600–2200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Loveridge's sunbird is a localized East African sunbird restricted to highland forests of Tanzania, where it acts as an important pollinator of flowering shrubs and trees. Like many sunbirds, it supplements nectar with small insects, especially when feeding young. Its small range makes it sensitive to forest clearance and fragmentation, and it is a sought-after species for birdwatchers visiting the Eastern Arc Mountains.
Temperament
active and alert
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks when flowering trees are abundant. Nests are typically small, pendant, and woven from plant fibers with spider silk, suspended from foliage. Both sexes participate in territory defense around rich nectar sources during the breeding period.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
High, thin chips and a rapid series of twitters typical of small sunbirds. Males give more frequent display notes around flowering trees and during courtship.
