Flowerpeckers

Sahul Sunbird (Cinnyris jugularis)

There is only one sunbird in Australia - the Sahul Sunbird. While it is widespread across Indonesia and into Thailand, this tiny little bird is only seen in Far North Queensland in rainforest areas. It is unperturbed by human presence and is also seen in parks, gardens and urban areas. They are a most delightful bird that really do bring a ray of sunshine to the forest.

This species used to be known as the Olive-backed Sunbird but it was recently changed to the Sahul Sunbird to reflect its range more accurately. It still, of course, has an olive back. The tail is quite short, unlike the bill which is decurved and long. The juvenile male above used the long bill to dig out a spider hiding in foliage.

Adult males have a full, deep blue gorget which sparkles in the sunshine.

Females do not have the blue throat, as seen below.

The Sahul Sunbird is very active and often seen and heard flitting around the forest as they hunt for food. They are not terribly put off by people and often nest under flat rooves and eaves. The nest is a long, straggly affair and I have seen them be moved when built in a dangerous spot.

The call of the Olive-backed Sunbird is a high pitched peep, usually accompanied by an equally high pitched twang.

Olive-backed Sunbird - Cinnyris jugularis frenatus.mp3

Mistletoebird (Dicaeum hirundinaceum)

The Mistletoebird is a tiny and reasonably common bird found across Australia but absent in Tasmania. It can be found in a variety of habitats and its absence in parts of South Australia and Western Australia may be because of a lack of humans rather than the bird.

The Mistletoebird is another species where the male is the most spectacular. And he is! A dark blue back is matched with a stripe down the belly. White flanks are topped with a brilliant red breast and throat.

The female is a slate grey on the back, darkening into the wings. Her front is plain and she has a hint of pink under the tail.

Young males look like the females as they transition to male plumage.

The song of the Mistletoebird is similar to the sunbird with twangs and squeaks. It is usually heard before being seen.

Mistletoebird - Dicaeum hirundinaceum hirundinaceum.mp3

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