The Príncipe sunbird is a species of bird in the family Nectariniidae. It is endemic to the island of Príncipe, part of the country of São Tomé and Príncipe which lies off the west coast of Africa in the Gulf of Guinea.
Region
Gulf of Guinea
Typical Environment
Endemic to Principe Island off the west coast of Central Africa. Occupies lowland and montane forest, forest edges, secondary growth, and agroforestry habitats such as cocoa plantations with shade trees. Frequently visits flowering trees and shrubs in villages and gardens. It can be locally common where nectar sources are abundant and continuous.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 900 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This small sunbird is found only on the island of Principe in the Gulf of Guinea and is an important pollinator of native flowering plants. It often adapts well to secondary growth and gardens, provided flowering shrubs and trees are available. Like other sunbirds, it can hover briefly at blossoms but usually feeds while perched. Its downcurved bill is specialized for nectar, but it also snaps up small insects and spiders, especially when feeding young.
Temperament
active and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief hovering at flowers
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, defending flowering trees and shrubs from rivals. Pairs likely maintain small territories during the breeding season. Nests are typically small, pendant or cup-like structures placed in shrubs or low trees. Both parents provision the young with insects as well as nectar.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a thin, high-pitched series of twittering phrases interspersed with squeaky notes. Calls include sharp chips and soft tseet contact notes given while foraging among blossoms.
