Guardians of Color: The Endearing Olive-backed Sunbirds and Their Habitat

The Olive-backed Sunbird is a charming and captivating bird that reveals a surprise of apricot feathers and an iridescent blue throat when it needs it the most. These features are usually hidden beneath its wings, making the unveiling even more special. Let’s get to know this delightful bird!

The olive-backed sunbird, also known as the yellow-bellied sunbird, is a petite bird measuring only about 12 cm in length. Its male counterpart boasts a vibrant yellow belly and a dark brown back. The head, throat, and upper breast of the male sport a metallic blue color. The male also has apricot-hued feathers that are typically hidden, but he uses them strategically to attract females. These feathers remain concealed beneath his wings at other times.

Just like their male counterparts, these females have a vibrant yellow belly and brown back. However, they don’t have the same colorful feathers as the males.

The colorful birds captured in this photo are typically spotted in Southeast Asia and Australia, specifically in areas ranging from southern China to the Philippines, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Northeast Australia. Lip Kee captured this stunning image that showcases the birds’ vibrant hues and unique features.

Olive-backed sunbirds were first discovered in mangrove swamps, but they have adapted to living in human-populated areas. Today, they can be found in woodlands, orchards, coconut plantations, as well as towns and villages.

A bird with a varied diet, the omnivorous species feeds on both nectar and invertebrates. They obtain nectar from flowering plants such as Coconut and Papaya, while also enjoying hunting for spiders, ants, and caterpillars.

From December to July, Olive-backed sunbirds engage in breeding activities. During this period, the female constructs a pear-shaped nest with a small entrance using grass stems and other fibrous materials. The nest is built independently by the female. She lays 1-3 pale green eggs with brown blotches, which she incubates for 11 days until they hatch. Both parents then take turns feeding the chicks until they leave the nest after 15-16 days.

It is believed that the number of Olive-backed sunbirds remains consistent, as there is no indication of a decline or significant danger.