The Sunbird with a fiery red tail is known as the Fire-tailed Sunbird, and it’s easily recognizable due to its unique feature. This small bird is truly remarkable!
The small bird species, Aethopyga ignicauda or commonly known as the fire-tailed sunbird, measures around 16 centimeters in length. It is easily recognizable through its striking red head and upper body, coupled with a long vibrant tail that emits warmth with its red upper tail coverts. Adding to its distinct appearance are yellow and red streaks on its chest and belly, giving it a unique and attention-grabbing look.
His crow and throat have a beautiful, iridescent combination of blue and black shades. On the other hand, the female bird’s beak area has a lovely yellow-orange color, and her tail sides are a warm brownish-orange tone.
These birds with wings can only be found in select countries such as Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Myanmar, Nepal, and Thailand. They are not commonly seen anywhere else.
The sunbird with a fiery tail prefers living in temperate forests as well as sub-tropical or tropical mountain forests with high levels of humidity.
Although their main source of nourishment is nectar, these winged creatures are not averse to adding insects to their menu whenever they get the chance.
There isn’t much information available on the breeding habits of the fігe-tailed Sunbird in the Himalayas and Hengduan Mountains, but it’s been observed that their nesting period lasts around 19.5 days. Interestingly, both male and female birds take part in feeding their babies, although females tend to do it more often. This species is known for putting in a lot of effort into caring for their young, which involves laying fewer eggs and giving them more attention compared to other birds at lower altitudes.
Luckily, the Fire-tailed Sunbird is not classified as a species with a high level of risk, as it is categorized as being of Least Concern according to the IUCN Red List. You can witness both the sight and sound of this feathered creature by watching the video that is included below.