Arachnothera clarae
The Naked-faced Spiderhunter (Arachnothera clarae) is a small, distinctive passerine bird belonging to the sunbird family Nectariniidae, known for its unique facial features. Measuring around 14 cm (5.5 inches) in length, it is characterized by its drab olive-green upperparts, a yellowish underbelly, and most notably, the prominent patch of bare, bright yellow skin surrounding its eye - a feature that gives it its evocative common name. This bare skin serves as its primary field mark, setting...
Primarily found in primary and secondary lowland rainforests, forest edges, and occasionally in disturbed areas or plantations, typically ranging from sea level up to 1,500 meters (4,900 feet) in elevation.
Feeds primarily on nectar from a variety of flowering plants, supplemented significantly by small insects, particularly spiders, and occasionally small fruits.
Naked-faced Spiderhunters are generally solitary or found in pairs, occasionally joining mixed-species foraging flocks. Their daily activity centers on foraging, where they are agile and acrobatic, often hovering briefly in front of flowers or clambering amongst foliage. They use their specialize...
The Naked-faced Spiderhunter is endemic to the Philippine archipelago, with a widespread but fragmented distribution across many of its major islands. Its breeding range covers Luzon, Mindoro, Samar, Leyte, Mindanao, Basilan, and Tawi-Tawi, among others, indicating a preference for forested habit...
Least Concern
- The Naked-faced Spiderhunter's most striking feature, the bare yellow skin around its eye, is truly unique among the spiderhunters, making it unmistakable in its native range. - Its long, decurved bill is not just for show; it's a highly specialized tool, perfectly adapted for probing deep into...