Scientific Name:
Cinnyris bifasciatus
Region:
Sub-Saharan Africa
About the Purple Banded Sunbird
The Purple-banded Sunbird (Cinnyris bifasciatus), also known as the Purple-banded Metallic Sunbird, is a small bird species found in eastern and southern Africa.
Habitat
Purple-banded Sunbirds inhabit a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, savannas, gardens, and parks. They are often found in areas with flowering plants and trees, as they feed primarily on nectar. These sunbirds are commonly seen in both natural and human-modified landscapes, including forest edges, riverine habitats, and suburban areas with flowering gardens.
Length
Purple-banded Sunbirds are relatively small birds, measuring approximately 10 to 12 centimeters (4 to 5 inches) in length, with a wingspan of about 15 to 20 centimeters (6 to 8 inches). They have a slender body, a long, curved bill adapted for feeding on nectar, and relatively short wings and tail. Their plumage is predominantly metallic green or bronze, with a distinctive purple band across the chest and throat in males
Best Viewing
The best places to view Purple-banded Sunbirds are in habitats with suitable flowering plants and trees, such as forests, woodlands, and gardens. Look for them feeding on nectar from flowers, particularly those with tubular or trumpet-shaped blooms. These sunbirds are often seen hovering near flowers or perched on branches while probing for nectar with their long bills.
