Aethopyga shelleyi
The Lovely Sunbird, *Aethopyga shelleyi*, is a jewel-toned passerine endemic to the Philippines, renowned for its striking sexual dimorphism. Males are an explosion of color, typically measuring around 11-12 cm in length, though their elongated central tail feathers can extend their total length to 15 cm, and weigh a mere 6-8 grams. They boast an iridescent purple-blue crown, malar stripe, and upper mantle, contrasting with a metallic green on the ear-coverts. A vivid crimson-red covers their...
Found in a variety of forested habitats, from lowland primary and secondary forests to forest edges, plantations, gardens, and even mangroves. Typically occurs from sea level up to 1500 meters, though more common at lower elevations.
Primarily feeds on nectar from a variety of flowering plants and trees, supplemented by small insects and spiders. Forages by probing flowers while hovering or gleaning from foliage.
The Lovely Sunbird is a highly active, diurnal species, constantly flitting between flowering plants in search of sustenance. Its foraging strategy primarily involves hovering like a hummingbird to probe flowers for nectar with its specialized brush-tipped tongue, but it also gleans small insects...
The Lovely Sunbird is endemic to the Palawan faunal region of the southwestern Philippines, making it a resident species throughout its distribution. Its primary range encompasses the large island of Palawan itself, where it is widespread in suitable habitats. In addition to Palawan, it is also f...
Least Concern
- The male Lovely Sunbird is one of the most iridescent and colorful birds in the Philippines, making it a star attraction for birders. - Its long, pointed central tail feathers, which can add several centimeters to its body length, are a key identifying feature of the male. - Like hummingbirds, ...