Greater Double-collared Sunbird

Identification

The greater double-collared sunbird is a small bird measuring 14 cm in length, with a distinctly decurved black bill characteristic of the sunbird family. The species exhibits striking sexual dimorphism. Males are unmistakable, displaying a glossy metallic green head, throat, upper breast and back, with a broad brilliant red band across the chest separated from the green breast by a narrow metallic blue band. The rest of the male's underparts are pale grey, and when displaying, yellow feather tufts become visible on the shoulders. Females are considerably duller, with pale grey plumage that is darker in the wings and lacks the bold red and blue markings of males.

The greater double-collared sunbird can be distinguished from the similar lesser double-collared sunbird by its larger size, broader red chest band, and longer bill. The voice is diagnostic: the call is a hard chut-chut-chut, while the song is a high-pitched jumble of tweets and twitters, notably richer than those of its smaller relative. Additionally, males produce a shrill whistle and click: wrew wrew wrew ch ch.

Range & Habitat

This sunbird breeds in southern, eastern and northeastern South Africa and Eswatini. While mainly resident throughout much of its range, populations in the northeast show partial migratory behaviour. The species is common in gardens, fynbos, forest edges and coastal scrub, making it relatively accessible to birdwatchers across diverse habitats.

Behaviour & Diet

Greater double-collared sunbirds are usually observed singly or in pairs, and possess characteristically fast, direct flight on short wings. They breed year-round with a peak breeding season from July to November. The closed oval nest is meticulously constructed from grass, lichen and other plant material, bound together with spider webs; the entrance is positioned at the side and sometimes features a porch, with the interior lined with feathers.

The species lives primarily on nectar from flowers but supplements its diet with fruit and, particularly when feeding young, insects and spiders. Notably, these sunbirds exhibit a distinctive feeding behaviour of hovering in front of spider webs to extract prey. While capable of hovering like hummingbirds to take nectar, they typically perch while feeding.

Best Time & Places to See It

The species' year-round breeding presence and resident status in much of southern Africa make it viewable throughout the year. However, the peak breeding season from July to November offers heightened activity and the best opportunity to observe breeding behaviour and male displays. Look for the greater double-collared sunbird in gardens, fynbos, forest edges and coastal scrub habitats throughout its range in South Africa and Eswatini.

Photography Tips

The male's brilliant metallic plumage and contrasting red and blue chest bands photograph beautifully in strong light that emphasizes the iridescent quality of the green and blue feathers. Position yourself to capture the characteristic yellow shoulder tufts during display. The bird's hovering behaviour while feeding on flowers presents dynamic photography opportunities, though perching birds may be easier to photograph sharply. The small size and fast movements require a good telephoto lens and fast shutter speed.