The white-flanked sunbird is a species of bird in the family Nectariniidae. It is endemic to Indonesia.
Region
Greater Sunda Islands (Indonesia)
Typical Environment
Occupies montane and submontane broadleaf and mossy forests, forest edges, and shrubby clearings. Common around flowering trees, including edges of secondary growth and high-elevation gardens. Often forages at mid-story to canopy level but will descend to visit dense flowering shrubs. Typically found in areas with abundant epiphytes and nectar sources.
Altitude Range
1000–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This montane sunbird is confined to Indonesia, where it frequents flowering shrubs and trees and acts as an important pollinator. Males show a striking white patch on the flanks that gives the species its name, while females are more subdued. It often travels with mixed-species flocks along forest edges and clearings. The thin, decurved bill is specialized for sipping nectar but it also takes small arthropods.
Temperament
active and agile
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often joins mixed-species flocks, moving quickly between flowering plants. Pairs or small groups are common during the breeding season, and nests are typically small, pendant cups placed in sheltered vegetation. Territoriality is moderate around rich nectar sources.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives thin, high-pitched twitters and tinkling phrases, interspersed with sharp chips. Vocalizations are quick and somewhat metallic, often delivered while actively foraging.
Plumage
Male shows iridescent upperparts with a contrasting bold white patch on the flanks and darker underparts; female is olive to grayish above with paler underparts and less distinct white flanks. Both sexes have sleek, close-fitting plumage typical of sunbirds.
Diet
Feeds primarily on nectar from a variety of montane flowering plants and trees. Also consumes small insects and spiders gleaned from foliage and captured in brief sallies. This mixed diet provides protein essential during breeding and for nestling growth.
Preferred Environment
Forages at mid-levels to canopy along forest edges, clearings, and flowering thickets. Frequently visits blossoms of epiphytes and roadside flowering shrubs in highland areas.
