Purple Sunbird (Cinnyris asiaticus)

The Purple Sunbird, scientifically known as Cinnyris asiaticus, is a small passerine bird belonging to the sunbird family, Nectariniidae. Here's an overview of this beautiful bird:

Appearance:

The male Purple Sunbird is known for its iridescent plumage, which shines with shades of metallic purple, blue, and green, especially during the breeding season.

During non-breeding periods, males may appear duller with more brownish plumage.

Females and juveniles, on the other hand, have olive-brown upperparts and paler underparts, often with a faint streaking pattern.

Both males and females have short, slightly curved bills, ideal for feeding on nectar.

Habitat:

They inhabit a variety of habitats, including gardens, parks, forests, and scrublands. They are often found in areas with flowering plants, their primary food source.

Behavior and Diet:

Purple Sunbirds primarily feed on nectar, using their long, specialized bills to extract it from flowers. They also consume small insects and spiders, especially during the breeding season when they require additional protein.

They are known for their hovering flight while foraging among flowers.

These birds are often solitary or found in pairs, but they may form loose flocks outside the breeding season.

Breeding:

During the breeding season, male Purple Sunbirds display their vibrant plumage to attract mates.

They build small, cup-shaped nests suspended from branches using various materials like plant fibers, spider silk, and feathers.

Females typically lay two to three eggs, which they incubate for about two weeks. Both parents contribute to feeding and caring for the chicks.

Purple Sunbird (Cinnyris asiaticus) is indeed found across the Indian subcontinent. Its distribution covers a wide range of habitats within this region, including:

India: The Purple Sunbird is distributed throughout India, from the northern Himalayan foothills to the southern tip of the Indian peninsula. It is commonly found in gardens, parks, forests, and scrublands across the country.

Sri Lanka: Purple Sunbirds are also present in Sri Lanka, where they inhabit various habitats, including gardens, woodlands, and forest edges.

Bangladesh: In Bangladesh, the Purple Sunbird is found in suitable habitats across the country, including urban and rural areas.

Nepal: While less common in Nepal compared to other parts of the Indian subcontinent, Purple Sunbirds can still be found in suitable habitats, including forested areas and gardens.

Bhutan: Purple Sunbirds are recorded in Bhutan, primarily in subtropical and tropical forests.

Pakistan: While less common compared to other parts of the subcontinent, Purple Sunbirds are found in suitable habitats in Pakistan, including gardens and forested areas.

Overall, the Purple Sunbird is a widespread and common bird across the Indian subcontinent, where it is admired for its striking appearance and its role as a pollinator in various ecosystems.