Cinnyris ludovicensis
Ludwig's Double-collared Sunbird (Cinnyris ludovicensis) is a striking passerine, an emblem of the unique avifauna found on the islands of São Tomé and Príncipe. This petite bird measures approximately 10-11 cm in length and weighs around 6-8 grams, exhibiting pronounced sexual dimorphism. The male boasts an iridescent metallic green head and upperparts, contrasting sharply with a bright yellow belly and a vivid red breast band bordered above and below by narrow metallic blue-purple bands – t...
This sunbird primarily inhabits humid montane forests, forest edges, and cultivated areas with tall trees, typically at elevations above 700 meters on São Tomé and Príncipe.
Primarily nectivorous, feeding on nectar from a variety of flowering plants, supplemented with small insects and spiders, which are caught on the wing or gleaned from foliage.
Ludwig's Double-collared Sunbird is diurnal, actively foraging throughout the day and likely roosting communally or solitarily in dense vegetation at night. It is a highly agile and energetic feeder, primarily taking nectar by hovering or perching near flowers, often probing deep with its special...
Ludwig's Double-collared Sunbird is entirely endemic to the Gulf of Guinea islands, specifically found on São Tomé and Príncipe. On São Tomé, its primary range is restricted to the central and southern montane forests, generally occurring at elevations above 700 meters, extending up to around 2,0...
Least Concern
- Ludwig's Double-collared Sunbird is endemic, meaning it is found nowhere else in the world except the islands of São Tomé and Príncipe. - The male's iridescent green plumage can appear black in poor light, only revealing its vibrant hues when sunlight hits it at the right angle. - Its long, dec...