Gurney's Sugarbird
Promerops gurneyi
Near ThreatenedAves · Passeriformes · Promeropidae
About
Gurney's sugarbird is a medium-sized passerine endemic to the mid- and high-altitude grassland velds in southern Africa. It belongs to the family Promeropidae, which contains one genus, Promerops, and two species. Gurney's sugarbird feeds on nectar from Protea bushes as well as on small insects. This bird is characterized by its long, graduated tail and decurved beak.
Fun Fact
Promeropidae was also once classified in the Australian Meliphagidae (honeyeaters) family, because of their shared and unique tongue structure, behaviour, and nest-building.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Found in elevated regions in north-eastern Mountain Sourveld and north-eastern Sandy Highveld in the Transvaal and Natal regions.
Diet
Feed mainly on nectar, and during the breeding season small insects are the main prey items fed to chicks.
Lifespan
13 years
Threats
- Habitat Change
- Hunting and Collection
- Climate Change