The western violet-backed sunbird or Longuemare's sunbird is a species of bird in the family Nectariniidae. It is the most widely ranging species in the violet-backed sunbird superspecies, ranging throughout a large part of tropical mainland sub-Saharan Africa not inhabited by other members of the superspecies. It is mainly found in regions with mesic woodland.
Region
West and Central Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs widely through mesic woodland, wooded savanna, gallery forest, and forest edges, often near watercourses. It frequents flowering trees and shrubs, including secondary growth, plantations, and gardens within its range. The species adapts well to fragmented habitats so long as nectar sources are present. It often uses riparian corridors to move between feeding sites.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also known as Longuemare's sunbird, this small nectar specialist is an important pollinator across West and Central African woodlands. Males flash a striking violet sheen on the back that shifts with the light, while females are much duller and well camouflaged. They build pendant, purse-like nests from plant fibers and spider webs, usually with a side entrance. Though largely sedentary, they wander locally to track flowering trees.
Temperament
active and mildly territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick, darting sallies
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small loose groups at flowering trees. Males defend rich nectar sources and display with rapid chases. The nest is a hanging, fibrous pouch bound with spider silk, typically suspended from a branch or vine. Likely monogamous during the breeding season, with both parents provisioning young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A high, thin series of tsee and tseep notes interspersed with rapid tinkling trills. Calls are sharp, metallic chips given frequently while foraging and during chases.
Plumage
Male with glossy violet to purple upperparts and dark head and throat contrasting with clean whitish underparts; wings and tail dusky. Female is olive-brown above with pale yellowish underparts, often faintly streaked on the throat and breast, and a subtle pale supercilium.
Diet
Feeds primarily on nectar from a wide variety of flowering trees and shrubs, probing with its decurved bill. Supplements nectar with small arthropods—especially insects and spiders—captured by gleaning and short sallies. In the breeding season, animal prey forms an important part of the nestlings’ diet. May occasionally take small berries when available.
Preferred Environment
Concentrates at flowering canopies, edges of woodland, and along riparian vegetation where blooms are abundant. Also visits gardens and plantations with flowering ornamentals and fruit trees.
