About the Palestine Sunbird
The Palestine sunbird is a small passerine bird of the sunbird family, Nectariniidae. Found in parts of the Middle East and sub-Saharan Africa, it is also known as the northern orange-tufted sunbird. However, the name "orange-tufted sunbird" refers to another species, found further south in Africa. In 2015, the Palestinian Authority adopted the species as a national bird, after losing in Israel's national bird public vote in 2008 in favor of the hoopoe. The specific name osea is derived from Ancient Greek ὁσια.
Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
ID tip
The Palestine sunbird is 8 to 12 cm long with a wingspan of 14 to 16 cm. Males have an average weight of 7.6 g and females weigh around 6.8 g. The bill is fairly long, black and curves downwards. The plumage of breeding males is mostly dark but appears glossy blue or green in the light. There are orange tufts at the sides of the breast which are hard to see except at close range. Females and juveniles are grey-brown above with pale underparts. Non-breeding males are similar but may retain some dark feathers. It has a high, fast, jingling song and various calls including a harsh alarm call.
Text from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
Where the Palestine Sunbird lives
Recorded as a rare visitor in Congo - Kinshasa.
When to see the Palestine Sunbird
Peak activity in March · a resident species across most of its range
Easily confused with
Loten's SunbirdCinnyris loteniusLoten's sunbirds are small, only 12–13 cm long.
Loten's SunbirdCinnyris loteniusLoten's sunbirds are small, only 12–13 cm long.
Southern Double-collared SunbirdCinnyris chalybeusThe southern double-collared sunbird is 12 cm long.
Side by side: Palestine Sunbird vs Southern Double-collared Sunbird · Loten's Sunbird vs Palestine Sunbird
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