Cinnyris dussumieri
The Seychelles Sunbird (Cinnyris dussumieri) is a captivating, diminutive passerine endemic to the granitic Seychelles islands. Measuring approximately 11-12 cm in length and weighing just 6-8 grams, males are easily identified by their stunning iridescent metallic green head, back, and upper breast, contrasting with a yellowish-olive belly and a small, often concealed, metallic blue-violet patch on the throat. Their slender, distinctly decurved black bill is perfectly adapted for nectar feed...
Found in a variety of tropical environments, including forest edges, woodlands, gardens, cultivated areas, coconut plantations, and mangroves. It occurs from sea level up to the highest mountain peaks across the granitic Seychelles.
Primarily consumes nectar from a wide variety of flowering plants, supplemented significantly by small insects and spiders; occasionally takes small berries or fruit pulp.
Seychelles Sunbirds are diurnal and highly active, particularly in the mornings and late afternoons, spending their time foraging and defending their territories. They employ diverse foraging strategies, often hovering like hummingbirds to probe flowers for nectar with their specialized bills, bu...
The Seychelles Sunbird is strictly endemic to the granitic islands of the Seychelles archipelago in the western Indian Ocean. Its range encompasses all the major granitic islands, including Mahé, Praslin, La Digue, Silhouette, Curieuse, Aride, Cousin, and Frégate. This species is a year-round res...
Least Concern
- It is the only sunbird species native to the granitic Seychelles islands, making it a unique evolutionary lineage. - Known locally in Seychellois Creole as 'Kolibri' due to its hummingbird-like feeding behavior of hovering at flowers. - Plays a vital role as a pollinator for many native Seychel...