Bird · GBIF taxon 5229971
Malachite Sunbird
Nectarinia famosaBreeding male Malachite Sunbirds display brilliant, shimmering metallic-green plumage accompanied by extraordinarily long central tail feathers. Resident across high-altitude grasslands and fynbos, these fast-moving pollinators hover expertly or perch directly on floral stems to siphon nectar from deep flower tubes. They fiercely defend prime flowering patches against rival sunbirds, filling the air with sharp, metallic chipping calls.
HighlandPollinatorIridescent
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Flower Nectar
- Small Insects
- Spiders
Predators
- Boomslang
- African Goshawk
- Domestic Cat
ThreatsHabitat degradation, altered fire regimes in fynbos regions, and climate-driven floral shifts.
HabitatsMontane grasslands, high-altitude fynbos, subalpine scrub, and highland gardens.
Life spanTypically 3 to 6 years in the wild.
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyNectariniidae
- SpeciesNectarinia famosa
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
- Patience at Flowers: Stand quietly near blooming Protea or Aloe stands to observe territorial feeding.
- Binocular Observation: Use optics from a distance to avoid disturbing males singing from prominent perches.
Competitor Frequent Companion Close Relative Close Relative
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