Olive-backed Sunbird (Cinnyris jugularis)

Olive-backed Sunbird (Cinnyris jugularis)

The Olive-backed Sunbird is a small, vibrant nectar-feeding bird commonly found in Southeast Asia, Australia, and the Pacific islands. Known for its dazzling colors and hovering flight, it resembles hummingbirds in its feeding habits but belongs to the sunbird family (Nectariniidae).

Physical Description

• Size: 10–12 cm (4–4.7 inches)
• Weight: 5–10 grams
• Male:
  • Bright metallic blue-black throat and upper chest
  • Olive-green back and yellow underparts
  • Long, slender, curved beak for nectar feeding
• Female:
  • Lacks the metallic throat; entirely olive-green above and yellow below

Habitat

• Found in tropical and subtropical regions across:
  • Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines)
  • Northern Australia
  • Pacific islands
• Prefers open woodlands, mangroves, coastal areas, urban parks, and gardens
• Well-adapted to human presence and often nests near buildings

Behavior & Diet

• Feeding:
  • Primarily feeds on nectar from flowers, using its curved beak and specialized tongue
  • Also eats small insects and spiders, especially during breeding season for protein
  • Occasionally seen drinking sugar water from hummingbird feeders
• Flight:
  • Capable of hovering, but often prefers to perch while feeding
• Vocalization:
  • High-pitched, rapid “tzeet-tzeet” calls, frequently heard in the mornings

Breeding & Nesting

• Breeding Season: Varies by region but generally occurs year-round in tropical areas
• Nests:
  • Hanging, pouch-shaped nest, woven from plant fibers, spider silk, and leaves
  • Often built under eaves, balconies, or tree branches
• Eggs:
  • 1–3 small eggs, incubated mainly by the female
• Parental Care:
  • Both parents feed and protect the chicks
  • Chicks fledge in about 15–20 days

Threats & Conservation

• Threats:
  • Habitat destruction due to urbanization
  • Predation by snakes, larger birds, and invasive species
• Conservation Status:
  • Least Concern (LC) on the IUCN Red List
  • Thrives in both wild and urban areas due to its adaptability

Interesting Facts

• Unlike hummingbirds, sunbirds do not hover continuously but instead perch while feeding.
• Pairs are monogamous and often stay together year-round.
• Their nests often have a hanging “tail” of debris, possibly to deter predators.

Summary

The Olive-backed Sunbird (Cinnyris jugularis) is a charming, nectar-loving bird that has successfully adapted to human environments. With its striking plumage and energetic nature, it plays a key role in pollination across tropical ecosystems.

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