The Sumatran flowerpecker is a species of bird in the family Dicaeidae that is found in montane Sumatra. It was formerly considered to be a subspecies of the fire-breasted flowerpecker.
Region
Sumatra, Greater Sunda Islands
Typical Environment
Occurs in submontane to montane evergreen and mossy forests, especially along ridges, forest edges, and in secondary growth with abundant fruiting and flowering trees. Most frequently encountered in the mid- to upper canopy but will descend to edges and gaps to feed. It tolerates lightly disturbed habitats provided fruit resources remain. Gardens adjacent to forest may be used occasionally when mistletoe is present.
Altitude Range
800–2600 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Endemic to the montane forests of Sumatra, this small flowerpecker was formerly treated as a subspecies of the fire-breasted flowerpecker. It is an important disperser of mistletoe and other small-berried plants, often swallowing fruits whole and passing the seeds intact. Typically found in the canopy, it is active, fast-moving, and easiest to detect by its thin, high-pitched calls.
Temperament
active and alert
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with fast, direct flights between canopy perches
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks in the canopy. During breeding, pairs defend small feeding and nesting areas. The nest is a small, purse-like or oval structure suspended from foliage, bound with plant fibers and spider silk; both sexes may participate in nest building and care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are thin, high-pitched seeps and tinkling notes, delivered in short runs. Songs are simple, with repeated high chips and brief trills, often given while foraging high in the canopy.
Plumage
Compact, short-tailed flowerpecker with glossy dark upperparts and a contrasting bright patch on the breast in males; underparts otherwise pale to whitish toward the belly and vent. Females are duller, olive-green above with yellowish to buff underparts and lack the vivid breast blaze. Both sexes show a short, stout bill and smooth, neat plumage.
Diet
Feeds primarily on small berries, especially mistletoe, as well as other soft fruits that are swallowed whole. Also takes nectar from flowering trees and shrubs. Supplements its diet with small insects and spiders gleaned from foliage and twigs. By passing or wiping seeds onto branches, it plays a key role in mistletoe dispersal.
Preferred Environment
Forages mainly in the mid- to upper canopy of montane forest, along edges, and in gaps where fruiting and flowering resources are concentrated. Frequently visits mistletoe clumps and exposed perches that offer quick access to fruit.
