The Lovely Sunbird is a small and beautiful passerine bird species that belongs to the family of Nectariniidae. It is also known as the Marico Sunbird because of its common occurrence in the Marico district of South Africa. This bird is native to sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal to Ethiopia and down to South Africa.
The Lovely Sunbird is a tiny bird with an average length of 11 cm and weighing between 7 to 11 grams. Males are brightly colored with a glossy metallic green, blue, and purple plumage on their upper parts, while the underparts are black. They also have an iridescent blue-green tail and long, thin bills which are perfectly adapted for sipping nectar from flowers. Females, on the other hand, are less colorful. They have olive-brown upperparts and yellowish-white underparts.
The Lovely Sunbird is primarily a nectar feeder, and it plays an important role in pollination. They feed on the nectar of various flowering plants, including aloes, Proteas, and other brightly colored flowers. They also feed on insects, spiders, and sometimes other small arthropods.
This sunbird species is an active bird, flitting around from flower to flower, chasing away other birds or insects that might be sharing its food. The males are known for their habit of showing off their beautiful plumage, which they do during courting displays. During courtship, males perform courtship dances and songs, flying upward in a zigzag pattern while singing. If the female accepts the display, they will mate and build a small cup-shaped nest together.
The Lovely Sunbird is not considered threatened or endangered, with stable populations across its range. Nonetheless, habitat loss, especially through deforestation and expansion of agriculture and urbanization, remains a significant threat. Conservation efforts such as habitat protection, restoration, and reforestation, as well as raising public awareness of these beautiful birds' importance, are crucial for their continued survival.