Birds of Uganda – Palestine Sunbird

Given it’s equatorial location & abundance of fresh water, the sheer density of wildlife in Uganda is enough to make your head spin. There are (way) over 1000 bird species confirmed in the country alone. And what birds! Some of them look like actual runway models. We have already met the Collard & Malachite sunbirds, today we meet the Palestine Sunbird (or Cinnyris osea).

Birds of Fashion

Sunbirds are small birds similar to hummingbirds & honeyeaters. They are tiny nectar eaters often with bright iridescent plumage that can fly quickly & hover when feeding. Although similar they are not related, they just have a similar diet. Also called the Orange-tufted Sunbird, the Palestine Sunbird male is definitely the pretty one. During breeding season their plumage is a stunning matallic black, green & blue, with orange tufts on the edge of the breast. By comparison the females are a soft brownish grey.

Family Ties

We were unable to find much specifically about the Palestine Sunbird, so this information is about sunbirds generally. Both partners help to build their distinct nest & feed the young, but females do most of the incubating. Both can become quite aggressive & territorial during nesting season, but are usually gregarious in behavior.

Palestine Sunbird Lifestyle

Like hummingbirds, sunbirds generally feed mainly on nectar. Although they do supplement with insects, especially when feeding young. The Palestine Sunbird spends most of its time in areas of high vegetation, including orchards, gardens, woodlands, scrub & savannas.

More Birdwatching

We are excited to embark on this fun new series of posts & can’t wait to share more about the amazing bird species that make up the diverse wildlife of Uganda. Stay tuned for more to come & in the meantime, perhaps you should come visit Uganda & meet some of them for yourself!