Cyanomitra olivacea
The Olive Sunbird (Cyanomitra olivacea) is a demure yet captivating passerine, a jewel of Africa's dense forest undergrowth. Measuring approximately 14-15 cm in length and weighing around 10-15 grams, this species is characterized by its predominantly olive-green plumage, which provides excellent camouflage within its arboreal habitat. Both sexes exhibit a similar appearance, though males may have a slightly darker, more iridescent sheen, particularly on the crown and throat, distinguishing t...
This species primarily inhabits lowland and montane tropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, dense riparian thickets, and mature woodland, typically found from sea level up to 2,000 meters in elevation. It prefers areas with dense undergrowth and a rich diversity of flowering plants.
The primary diet consists of nectar from a wide variety of flowering plants, supplemented significantly by small insects and spiders, which are gleaned or hawked.
Olive Sunbirds are highly diurnal, spending their day actively foraging and defending their territories, typically roosting solitarily or in pairs within dense foliage at night. Their foraging strategy is characterized by acrobatic maneuvers, including hovering hummingbird-like in front of blosso...
The Olive Sunbird boasts an extensive distribution across sub-Saharan Africa, from West Africa's Atlantic coast through Central Africa, East Africa, and southwards into parts of Southern Africa. This non-migratory resident species occupies a continuous but also fragmented range, particularly in s...
Least Concern
- The Olive Sunbird is one of the most widespread sunbird species across sub-Saharan Africa, inhabiting a vast range of forest types. - Despite the often iridescent plumage of many sunbird species, the Olive Sunbird is notably drab, relying on camouflage rather than flashiness. - Its long, downcu...