Mamberamo sunbird

The Mamberamo sunbird or Rand's sunbird, is a species of bird in the sunbird family Nectariniidae that is found in northern New Guinea. It was formerly considered to be a subspecies of the olive-backed sunbird, now renamed the garden sunbird.

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Distribution

Region

Northern New Guinea

Typical Environment

Occurs in lowland and foothill zones of northern New Guinea, especially around riverine forests and the Mamberamo basin. It frequents forest edges, secondary growth, mangroves, and village gardens where flowering shrubs and trees are abundant. The species adapts well to disturbed habitats provided nectar sources are present. It often shares flowering trees with honeyeaters and other sunbirds.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 900 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size10–12 cm

Wing Span15–18 cm

Male Weight0.008 kg

Female Weight0.007 kg

Life Expectancy5 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

Also known as Rand's sunbird, this species is restricted to northern New Guinea around the Mamberamo River basin. It was formerly treated as a subspecies of the olive-backed (garden) sunbird but is now recognized as distinct. Males show a striking iridescent throat that they display while defending flowering trees. Like other sunbirds, it pollinates many native plants while feeding on nectar.

Behaviour

Temperament

active and territorial

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats

Social Behavior

Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups. Males defend rich nectar sources and perform short display flights. They build a pendant, purse-shaped nest of plant fibers and spider webs with a side entrance, typically suspended from a branch or human structure. Both sexes participate in parental care.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Vocalizations are high-pitched, thin tsee-tsee notes interspersed with tinkling, jumbled chatter. Males give sharper, rapid calls when chasing intruders around flowering trees.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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