Purple sunbird

The purple sunbird is a delightful small bird native to South and Southeast Asia, as well as parts of the Arabian Peninsula. These birds have a voracious appetite for nectar but also enjoy munching on insects. The males are particularly striking, featuring black feathers that shimmer with hints of purple in the light, while the females display a more understated palette of olive and yellow. This noticeable sexual dimorphism makes it easy to distinguish between the sexes. You'll often encounter them in pairs or small groups, especially in gardens brimming with the flowers they adore. Besides their striking appearance, these birds play a vital role in pollinating various plants.

Purple sunbirds are quite the travelers, with a range extending across West Asia, the Indian subcontinent, and Southeast Asia. They are highly adaptable, thriving in sparse forests, gardens, and even urban areas. Some of them undertake local migrations depending on the season. Their primary breeding period is just before the monsoons arrive. During this time, males put on a spectacular display, raising their heads, fanning their tails, and singing to attract females. Nest building is an intricate affair, usually undertaken by the females, who use materials like cobwebs, vegetation, lichens, and bark. Typically, they lay two eggs, which the female alone incubates.

Purple sunbirds are recognized for their loud, chattering calls and are not hesitant to band together to drive away predators. Their rapid rattle song is a familiar sound in their habitats. During courtship, males flutter their wings and sing to captivate their potential mates. They are incredibly agile in flight but often prefer to perch while sipping nectar. These captivating birds can live up to 22 years in captivity, making them long-term companions for those who choose to keep them.