Arachnothera longirostra
The Little Spiderhunter (Arachnothera longirostra) is a diminutive and distinctive member of the sunbird family, Nectariniidae, renowned for its specialized feeding habits. Measuring typically 14-16 cm in length and weighing a mere 9-15 grams, it is characterized by its dull olive-green upperparts, bright yellow underparts, and a long, sharply decurved black bill, which is a key identification feature. A thin, pale malar stripe often accents its otherwise plain face, and some subspecies may e...
Primarily inhabits tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests, including primary and secondary growth, forest edges, and dense scrub. It is found from lowlands up to elevations of about 1,800 meters, preferring areas with abundant flowering plants.
Feeds primarily on nectar, particularly from large, tubular flowers, supplemented by spiders and various small insects gleaned from foliage or caught in flight.
Little Spiderhunters are diurnal, typically solitary or found in pairs, often becoming very active and vocal during the morning and late afternoon. They are adept foragers, utilizing their long, curved bills to probe deep into flowers for nectar, often hovering briefly or clinging acrobatically t...
The Little Spiderhunter boasts an extensive distribution across the Oriental region, being a resident species throughout its range. It is found from the Indian subcontinent, including parts of India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh, eastward through Southeast Asia. Its range encompasses Myanmar, Th...
Least Concern
- The Little Spiderhunter's scientific name, Arachnothera longirostra, literally translates to 'long-billed spider hunter,' perfectly describing its appearance and primary prey. - Its remarkably long, decurved bill is a superb adaptation for reaching nectar deep inside tubular flowers, acting lik...