Bird of the Week

Scarlet-Tufted Malachite Sunbird (Nectarinia johnstoni)

Scarlet-Tufted Malachite Sunbird (Nectarinia johnstoni)

Photo@Stratton Hatfield

Scarlet-tufted Malachite Sunbird are endemic to the alphine zones of East Africa mountains. In Kenya, they are exclusively restricted to the moorlands of Mt.Kenya and Aberdare National Parks.They feed exclusively on the nectar of Lobelia telekii flowers.Males are resident on their territories all year and defend Lobelia telekii inflorescenes from conspecifics.Males are bright iridescent green, with scarlet pectral tufts which are displayed prominently during aggressive interactions with other males.

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Published by kenyabirding

I am passionate about ornithology and the environment. I love to bird watch anywhere I can! I am involved with the Lake Baringo Biodiversity Conservation Group and also run an local eco-tourism company Silent Fliers of Kenya Safaris that specializes in birding, Wildlife photography and general wildlife holidays in East Africa

2 thoughts on “Scarlet-Tufted Malachite Sunbird (Nectarinia johnstoni)”

  1. I really like this description of the scarlet-tufted sunbird! I saw a bird very much like this on the trail to Dragons Teeth in Aberdare Park in February 2023, but I wasn’t sure if it was that one or the malachite sunbird (N. famosa). Do you know if both species occur along that trail?

  2. Hi Chris,actually both species occurs above 3000m above the sea level in Aberdare national park.I hope you had a great time there.

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