The superb sunbird is a species of bird in the family Nectariniidae. It is widely spread across the African tropical rainforest.
Region
West and Central Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs across the African tropical rainforest belt from West Africa through the Congo Basin, including some Gulf of Guinea islands. It inhabits lowland and foothill evergreen forests, forest edges, secondary growth, and riparian thickets. The species readily visits village plantings, orchards, and gardens with flowering trees and shrubs. It can also be found in mangroves and cacao/coffee plantations where nectar sources are plentiful.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Superb sunbirds are small, fast-moving nectar specialists with brush-tipped tongues that make them effective pollinators of many rainforest plants. Males are strikingly iridescent and strongly territorial around rich nectar sources, while females are more cryptic. They adapt well to edges and gardens where flowering shrubs are abundant. They also take tiny insects, especially when feeding nestlings.
Superb Sunbird, male
Temperament
active and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with swift, darting flights
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs; males defend flower-rich feeding territories vigorously. Nests are purse-shaped, suspended structures made from plant fibers and spider webs, often with a side entrance. Both parents may attend the nest, with insects forming a larger part of the chick diet.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
High, thin twitters and rapid, metallic chipping calls delivered from exposed perches or while foraging. Song phrases are quick and repetitive, interspersed with sharp tseet notes.
