Scarlet-chested Sunbird

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Chalcomitra senegalensis

The Scarlet-chested Sunbird inhabits woodland, savanna (especially with thorn trees) and parks and gardens in South Africa’s Kwazulu-Natal, Mpumalanga and Limpopo Provinces, where it is considered a common resident. Outside our borders it occurs widely in Africa south of the Sahara, though avoiding the equatorial forests and dry desert areas. These are tiny birds, weighing only between 10 and 17g. Scarlet-chested Sunbirds feed on nectar and small invertebrates.

Breeding in Scarlet-chested Sunbirds has been recorded throughout the year. with a distinct peak in the summer months. The female is solely responsible for building the pear-shaped hanging nest from grass, leaves, bark and spider web, and incubating the eggs, of which there are between 1 and 3 in a clutch, for around two weeks. Both parents feed the chicks, who leave the nest at 2-3 weeks old and then stay with their parents for up to two months more.

With an abundant and stable population, the IUCN lists the Scarlet-chested Sunbird as least concern.

Scarlet-chested Sunbird (male)
Scarlet-chested Sunbird (female)
Scarlet-chested Sunbird (female)
Scarlet-chested Sunbird (female)
Scarlet-chested Sunbird (male)
Scarlet-chested Sunbird (male)
Scarlet-chested Sunbird (female)
Scarlet-chested Sunbird
Scarlet-chested Sunbird (male)
Female Scarlet-chested Sunbird
Scarlet-chested Sunbird
Scarlet-chested Sunbird (male)
Scarlet-chested Sunbird (male)

24 thoughts on “Scarlet-chested Sunbird”

    1. de Wets Wild Post author

      You are being very kind and generous John, thank you. In form and function they are very similar indeed to the hummingbirds, but in fact not related at all – another example of convergent evolution.

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  7. prior..

    This is my favorite bird post from you all! The scarlet breasted make with wings spread side (second from bottom) is a photo that speaks to me – and I think it was your feature pic – anyhow – my hubs liked the top photo and this bird also has one of my favorite colors – so loving this post right now

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