A small, vibrant sunbird, male Ruby-cheeked Sunbirds are particularly striking with iridescent green and blue plumage and a prominent ruby-red cheek patch. They are active nectar-feeders with a curved bill.
Where to spot
Widespread across parts of South and Southeast Asia, including the Indian subcontinent, Indochina, and the Greater Sundas. Inhabits forests, forest edges, and gardens.
How to spot
Look for it visiting flowering trees and shrubs, often hovering or clinging to blossoms. The male's ruby cheeks are an excellent diagnostic feature. Listen for its high-pitched, buzzy calls.
When to spot
Active year-round during daylight hours, especially in the morning and late afternoon when flowers are most visited.
Where to spot
Widespread across parts of South and Southeast Asia, including the Indian subcontinent, Indochina, and the Greater Sundas. Inhabits forests, forest edges, and gardens.
How to spot
Look for it visiting flowering trees and shrubs, often hovering or clinging to blossoms. The male's ruby cheeks are an excellent diagnostic feature. Listen for its high-pitched, buzzy calls.
When to spot
Active year-round during daylight hours, especially in the morning and late afternoon when flowers are most visited.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
The Ruby-cheeked Sunbird is one of the few sunbird species that also regularly consumes spiders and small insects, supplementing its nectar diet with protein.
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