Kurochkinegramma hypogrammicum
The Purple-naped Spiderhunter, Kurochkinegramma hypogrammicum, is a striking member of the sunbird family, Nectariniidae, instantly recognizable by its distinctive iridescent purple patch on the nape, though often obscured. This medium-sized passerine measures approximately 14-16 cm in length with a weight typically ranging from 10 to 15 grams, characterized by a long, slender, and strongly decurved bill perfectly adapted for probing into flowers. Its general plumage is a muted olive-green to...
Inhabits lowland and montane evergreen and secondary forests, often near forest edges, plantations, and gardens. It typically occurs from sea level up to elevations of 1,800 meters, preferring areas with abundant flowering plants.
Primarily feeds on nectar from a variety of flowering plants, but also actively consumes spiders and small insects found on foliage or in spiderwebs. Forages by probing flowers with its long bill and gleaning invertebrates from leaves and bark.
Purple-naped Spiderhunters are diurnal and generally solitary or found in pairs, occasionally joining mixed-species foraging flocks. They are highly active foragers, employing a specialized 'spiderhunting' technique where they systematically inspect foliage, bark crevices, and spiderwebs for inse...
The Purple-naped Spiderhunter boasts a wide distribution across Southeast Asia, extending from Myanmar and parts of extreme eastern India (Arunachal Pradesh, Assam) through southern China (southern Yunnan). Its range continues southwards through Indochina, encompassing Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, a...
Least Concern
- The "spiderhunter" name is derived from their unique foraging behavior of actively seeking out spiders, not just nectar. - Despite its common name, the iridescent purple nape patch is notoriously difficult to observe in the field due to light conditions and the bird's active nature. - Its long,...