Seychelles Sunbird: where and when to see them

The Seychelles sunbird is a small endemic bird with a slender, downcurved bill adapted to feeding at flowers. It is widespread across the granitic islands and occurs in gardens as well as native vegetation. Males show an iridescent throat and small colored pectoral tufts, while females are plainer. Its frequent use of flowering shrubs makes it one of the more accessible endemic birds for patient observation from established paths.

Size

11–12 cm long

Weight

Not reliably established

Lifespan

Not reliably established

Status

Least Concern

Sunbirds move briskly between blossoms, usually perching to feed but sometimes hovering briefly. They supplement nectar with small arthropods gathered from leaves, twigs and flowers. Males sing from exposed positions and may defend productive feeding patches. The nest is a suspended pouch with a side entrance, attached to vegetation or occasionally a sheltered structure. Birds readily use modified landscapes where flowering plants and safe nesting cover remain available. Courtship displays often involve the male singing and posturing to attract a mate. The intricate suspended nest, often decorated with lichen or plant material, is built predominantly by the female, taking several days to complete.

• Its local Creole name is kolibri, although it is not a hummingbird.
• Males have small pectoral feather tufts that are not always visible.
• Its nest hangs like a pouch and has a side entrance.
• It feeds mainly while perched rather than hovering continuously.

Observation is possible throughout the year because this sunbird is resident and widespread. Local flowering cycles often influence where it feeds more strongly than the calendar. Calmer intermonsoon months can make coastal walks comfortable, while early mornings usually offer better activity than hot midday periods. Early mornings are particularly productive for observing sunbirds as they actively forage in cooler temperatures. Observing from a boat is not common as they are typically found on land; shore excursions offer the best opportunities.

Coastal scrub, woodland edges, gardens and upland vegetation all provide habitat when flowers and small arthropods are available. It tolerates settlement better than many Seychelles endemics. Native flowering plants and layered vegetation are particularly useful, while bare beaches offer little feeding or nesting habitat. They are found across all the granitic islands of the Seychelles, thriving in a variety of disturbed and undisturbed habitats. Their adaptability allows them to persist in areas with human activity, including hotel grounds and plantations, as long as food and nesting sites are present.

Nectar supplies readily available energy, but insects and spiders provide important nutrients, especially for growing chicks. Birds probe blossoms with their curved bills and also glean prey from vegetation. Their use of flowers can assist pollination, although the outcome depends on flower structure and feeding technique. Insects such as small flies, beetles, and caterpillars are important protein sources, especially during breeding. They show a preference for certain flower species, contributing to their pollination by transferring pollen as they feed on nectar.

Common name

Seychelles Sunbird

Scientific name

Cinnyris dussumieri

Animal group

Birds

Size

11–12 cm long

Weight

Not reliably established

Lifespan

Not reliably established

Status

Least Concern

Identification

Its slim, strongly downcurved bill separates it from the Seychelles white-eye and warbler, while males also show an iridescent throat. Females and juveniles have duller olive-green plumage above and yellowish underparts, lacking the male's iridescent throat. The overall small size, active movements, and long, decurved bill are key characteristics even without the male's metallic coloration.