MyKrugerHoliday
Photo: Derek Keats · CC BY 2.0 · source ↗
Amethyst Sunbird
Swartsuikerbekkie · Chalcomitra amethystina
A large dark sunbird, the male appearing velvety black until sunlight ignites the metallic green forehead and amethyst-purple throat and shoulders. The female is grey-brown with a streaked breast. It feeds on nectar from aloes and flowering trees, supplemented with insects, and often shares blooming plants with the similar but red-breasted Scarlet-chested Sunbird.
Log your Amethyst Sunbird sighting — free →How to identify it
Male looks all black until light reveals a glittering green cap and purple throat; lacks the red chest of Scarlet-chested Sunbird.
Listen for its call
Sharp "tzik" notes leading into a scratchy little song.
Where to see it in Kruger
Resident in woodland, riverine bush and gardens park-wide, frequently feeding at flowering aloes alongside other sunbirds.
Did you know
In dull light he looks plain black, but a turn into the sun flashes secret purple and green like hidden jewels.
Often confused with
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