Bird
Cape Sugarbird
Promerops caferAlso known as Sugarbird, Kaapse Suikervoël
Cape sugarbirds are iconic nectar-feeders endemic to the species-rich fynbos heathlands of South Africa's Cape region. Males boast extraordinarily long, ribbon-like tail feathers that stream behind them during dramatic aerial displays over flowering protea bushes. They play a vital ecological role as primary pollinators for several large protea species while defending rich floral territories with harsh, metallic calls.
EndemicNectarivorePollinator
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & preyProtea nectar, Spiders, Small insects
Predators
- Predatory birds
- Snakes
- Domestic cats
ThreatsUrbanization, invasive vegetation, frequent wildfires
HabitatsFynbos heathland, protea stands, montane scrub
Life span5–10 years
Classification
- FamilyPromeropidae
- SpeciesPromerops cafer
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
- Optimal Timing: Visit fynbos reserves during autumn and winter when proteas bloom heavily.
- Spotting Males: Look for long-tailed males perched prominently on the highest protea flower heads.
- Keep Distance: Observe nesting pairs from trails to avoid disturbing delicate protea bushes.
Fynbos Companion (c) Thibaud Aronson, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA), uploaded by Thibaud Aronson · cc-by-sa
Primary Food Source no rights reserved, uploaded by Klaus Wehrlin · cc0
Close Relative (c) Noeleen du Toit, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
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