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Description:
Length approximately 6.5 inches. Weight averages 1.5
ounces. The male’s head and throat are an iridescent metallic
purple that continues through the back and tail regions. Wings
diverge into a deeper purplish blue. Breast and belly are white and
occasionally lightly streaked. Female has same pattern, but is less
conspicuous than male with a drab brown head and back with a white
belly that is heavily streaked. Juveniles closely resemble
females. Eyes are yellow.
Range:
Widespread over most areas of African south of Senegal in
the west and Sudan in the east.
Habitat:
Forested and wooded areas where there is ample fruit to
forage as well as fields and gardens. Has also been known to thrive
in dry bush areas where fig trees are present
Diet:
In the wild they prefer figs but will also catch insects
while flying. In the zoo, they eat tropical bits, fruits, and
vegetables
Life
Cycle:
These birds are monogamous. Laying dates vary widely due to
wide geographic location, but occur from Oct to Mar. The nest is
located in tree holes that are 6-20 feet above the ground. Green
leaves constitute most of the nest. Female lays 2-4 pale blue oval
eggs with reddish-brown spots. Female incubates for 2 weeks. Both
sexes will tend to the new brood for 3 weeks, feeding them mainly
insects. Fledging takes place soon after
Did You Know?
·
These birds have been known to travel in mixed species
flocks.
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These birds have been protected because of national parks and
their wide geographic range. Their adaptability is also credited
for their success.
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Parasitized by the Greater and Lesser Honeyguides.
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They are rarely seen on the ground, preferring to make a
living in the tree tops. When they are found in gardens they are
not a significant pest and are not widely exterminated. |
