The Malachite Sunbird is a large, vibrant sunbird, famous for the male's dazzling iridescent green plumage and elongated tail streamers. It's a common sight in fynbos and other flowering habitats.
Where to spot
Primarily found in southern and eastern Africa, in shrubland, fynbos, gardens, and montane grasslands where proteas and other flowering plants are abundant.
How to spot
Spot its brilliant green plumage as it hovers or perches near large flowers, especially proteas. Males often perform aerial displays. Its high-pitched calls also give away its presence.
When to spot
Active year-round, with increased visibility during periods of abundant flowering, particularly in the cooler parts of the day like early mornings and late afternoons.
Where to spot
Primarily found in southern and eastern Africa, in shrubland, fynbos, gardens, and montane grasslands where proteas and other flowering plants are abundant.
How to spot
Spot its brilliant green plumage as it hovers or perches near large flowers, especially proteas. Males often perform aerial displays. Its high-pitched calls also give away its presence.
When to spot
Active year-round, with increased visibility during periods of abundant flowering, particularly in the cooler parts of the day like early mornings and late afternoons.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
The Malachite Sunbird is one of the largest sunbird species, and the male's tail streamers can grow to be longer than its body, a feature prominently displayed during courtship flights.
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