Crimson Sunbird (Aethopyga siparaja)

Crimson sunbird (Aethopyga siparaja)

Family: Nectariniidae

The Crimson sunbird is Singapore's unofficial national bird, as declared by the Nature Society (Singapore). This beautiful bird can be found in Southern Asia, from India to Indonesia. It is a resident feeder in Singapore and is commonly seen at places such as the Bukit Batok Nature Reserve. This photo was taken in the Jurong Eco Garden.

In this photo, you can clearly see the striking crimson plumage on its body and the shiny purple tail feathers, characteristic of the male sunbird. Its main diet is nectar although it does feed on insects as well. During feeding, it can hover or perch around the flower.

Sources:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crimson_sunbird

http://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/environment/is-the-crimson-sunbird-singapores-national-bird-er-not-official-yet

http://lkcnhm.nus.edu.sg/dna/organisms/details/534