Malachite sunbird
Nectarinia famosaIntroduction: In Namibia, malachite sunbirds (Nectarinia famosa) favour riverine thornbush as well as mountain grasslands. A regular bather, they are usually observed singly or in pairs. They hibernate at night to conserve energy (torpor).
Distribution: The extreme south southern regions of Namibia only around Rosh Pinah/Fish River Canyon and along some locations along the Orange River.
Diet: Eats mainly nectar and spiders and will also take pollen.
Description: A large sunbird with a long, black decurved bill. Bright metallic green overall plumage, with a blackish tail.
Breeding: A dome-shaped nest made from dry grass, plant down and spider web is built by the female only in around 15 days. Usually 2 eggs are laid from August to January and incubated for around 14 days.
Size: 25cm.
Weight: 18g.
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