Fauna
Bird

Copper Sunbird

Cinnyris cupreus

Also known as Coppery Sunbird

Breeding male copper sunbirds dazzle with an iridescent coppery-bronze and metallic purple plumage that glints brightly in full sunlight. They dart restlessly between flowering trees and shrubs, probing blossoms with long decurved bills and defending nectar-rich territories with energetic song. Females and non-breeding males wear much subdued olive-brown coats with yellowish underparts, blending easily into savanna foliage.

IridescentNectar FeederAfrican Bird
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & preyFlower Nectar, Spiders, Small Insects
Predators
  • Tree Snakes
  • Shrikes
  • Raptors
ThreatsLocal habitat clearance and pesticide use
HabitatsMoist savanna, woodland, gardens, and agricultural land
Life span3–6 years
  1. OrderPasseriformes
  2. FamilyNectariniidae
  3. GenusCinnyris
  4. SpeciesCinnyris cupreus
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
  • Observation Spotting: Scan flowering trees such as Erythrina or Jacaranda during sunny morning hours when birds are most active.
  • Listening for Calls: Listen for rapid, metallic chattering calls given while foraging actively among blossoms.
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