The violet-breasted sunbird is a species of bird in the family Nectariniidae (sunbirds). It is found in Kenya and Somalia.
Region
Horn of Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs from coastal and near-coastal Somalia south into eastern Kenya. Favors dry scrub, acacia-Commiphora thickets, coastal bushland, and open woodland edges, and it readily visits gardens with flowering shrubs. It concentrates where nectar-rich plants are in bloom, shifting locally as flowering peaks. Nests are typically sited in low shrubs or small trees near reliable floral resources.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This small sunbird’s vivid male plumage is produced by iridescent feather structures rather than pigments. It often hovers briefly at flowers like a hummingbird but typically feeds while perched. By visiting blossoms of aloes and other native plants, it acts as an important pollinator in arid coastal habitats. Pairs build suspended, purse-shaped nests from plant fibers and spider webs.
Temperament
active and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief hovering at flowers
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, sometimes small loose groups around abundant flowering plants. Males defend rich nectar sources vigorously against rivals. The nest is an enclosed, hanging pouch woven from grasses and spider silk, with both parents participating in care. Breeding often coincides with peaks in flowering after rains.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A rapid, high-pitched series of twitters and tinkling notes, interspersed with sharp chips. Calls accelerate during chases and territorial displays and soften to more subdued warbles when foraging.
