Loten’s Sunbird is a small, iridescent bird found in South India and Sri Lanka, known for the striking metallic blue and green plumage of the male. Females are more drab with olive-brown coloring. This species inhabits gardens, forests, and plantations, feeding mainly on nectar, but also consuming insects and spiders. Their long, curved bills are well-adapted to their feeding habits. Loten’s Sunbirds are highly active and vocal, often seen flitting between flowers. They build hanging nests and are known for their aggressive behavior towards intruders in their territory.

Systematic position

• Domain : Eukaryota
• Kingdom : Animalia
• Phylum : Chordata
• Subphylum : Vertebrata
• Class : Aves
• Order : Passeriformes
• Family : Nectariniidae
• Genus : Cinnyris
• Species : lotenius