Eastern double-collared sunbird

The eastern double-collared sunbird (Cinnyris mediocris) is found in high regions of Africa such as the Cherangani mountains of Kenya, where it has evolved a remarkable way of coping with the extremes of temperature experienced in that environment.

Its habitat includes scrub, marsh and moorlands, as opposed to the lush forests preferred by other sunbird species.


Appearance

The eastern double-collared sunbird is between four and five inches long. The head (apart from the front), throat and upper body are a brilliant metallic green, with blue, red and yellow underneath. The tail and wings are brown. It has a long curving bill.


Behaviour

The eastern double-collared sunbird lives at altitudes of around 11,000 feet, which means that temperatures are high during the day but very low at night. The bird is able to reduce its internal temperature by up to 17 degrees Celsius, which conserves its energy to a level that ensures its survival.


Feeding

Food comprises insects and the nectar of plants such as giant lobelias and red-hot pokers.

© John Welford