Name
Scarlet-chested sunbird - Chalcomitra senegalensis
Scarlet-chested Sunbird Appearance
The scarlet-chested sunbird is a sexual dichromatism species of bird (The male and female have different plumage).
The male scarlet-chested sunbird is larger than the female and is around 14 cm in length. The male’s plumage is black, with an iridescent emerald green crown and chin. The throat and upper chest are scarlet. The feet, legs and bill are black.
The female scarlet-chested sunbird’s plumage is greyish olive above, with heavily mottled underparts, which helps to distinguish them from the female African black sunbird.
Diet
The scarlet-chested sunbird feeds on nectar, insects and spiders. This sunbird favours nectar from aloes and will feed by either perching or hovering.
Scarlet-chested Sunbird Breeding
Scarlet-chested sunbirds are monogamous, and build an untidy oval or pear-shaped nest of grass and leaves, often held together with spider’s webs, mid-canopy. The female lays one to three eggs, that are incubated for around 16 days.
The scarlet-chested sunbird is a brood host to Klaas and Diderick cuckoos.
Scarlet-chested Sunbird Behaviour
Scarlet-chested sunbirds are often seen in small groups when feeding at a source of nectar. The male will sing from the top of a tree, puffing out his chest, to declare his presence and territory, and will defend his territory aggressively.
Threats
None.
Scarlet-chested Sunbird Distribution and Habitat
Scarlet-chested sunbirds are found in open woodland and thornveld. They are a common park and garden visitors. Scarlet-chested sunbird can be seen in the eastern parts of South Africa.