Cinnyris aurora
The Palawan Sunbird (Cinnyris aurora) is a dazzling jewel of the Nectariniidae family, proudly endemic to the Palawan faunal region of the Philippines. Measuring approximately 10-11 cm in length, males are resplendent with iridescent metallic green on their crown, throat, and upper breast, which dramatically contrasts with a broad, vivid orange-red breast band underlined by a narrow, violet-blue streak. Their upperparts are dark, while their belly is a dull yellow with olive flanks, often fea...
This species primarily inhabits tropical moist lowland forests, forest edges, secondary growth, plantations, gardens, and mangroves, typically found from sea level up to moderate elevations (up to 1,000 m).
Their diet primarily consists of nectar, extracted from a variety of flowering plants using their specialized bill and brush-tipped tongue, supplemented by small insects and spiders.
Palawan Sunbirds are highly active, diurnal birds, spending their days flitting ceaselessly between flowers and foliage. Foraging involves agile hovering to access nectar from blooms and gleaning small insects and spiders from leaves and bark. Males are territorial, often seen perched conspicuous...
The Palawan Sunbird is strictly endemic to the Palawan faunal region in the Philippines. Its distribution encompasses the main island of Palawan, extending to several surrounding smaller islands, including Busuanga, Culion, Calauit, Dumaran, and Balabac. This species is a resident breeder through...
Least Concern
- The male Palawan Sunbird's iridescent green throat and chest appear to change color depending on the angle of light, a phenomenon caused by structural coloration rather than pigment. - Despite their small size, typically 10-11 cm, they are crucial pollinators for many endemic Palawan plant spec...