The Green-tailed Sunbird, also known as the Himalayan Green-tailed Sunbird, is a stunning bird species found in the mountainous regions of Nepal. It belongs to the sunbird family, which is known for its vibrant colors and long, curved bills.
One of the most striking features of the Green-tailed Sunbird is its green tail, which contrasts beautifully with its metallic blue-green head, back, and wings. The male and female of this species are sexually dimorphic, with the male being more colorful than the female.
These tiny birds measure around 11 cm in length and weigh only 5-7 grams. Despite their small size, they are incredibly agile and are able to hover in mid-air to feed on nectar from flowers using their long, curved bills. They also eat small insects and spiders, which they catch while in flight.
The Green-tailed Sunbird is found in a variety of habitats, including forests, scrublands, and gardens. They are typically found at higher elevations of up to 3,000 meters above sea level. During the breeding season, which is from April to June, they build cup-shaped nests using grass, moss, and spiderwebs, which they hang from the branches of trees.
In addition to their beauty, Green-tailed Sunbirds play an important ecological role in pollinating flowers. As they feed on nectar, they inadvertently transfer pollen from one flower to another, helping to ensure the survival of plant species.
However, like ɱaпy bird species, the Green-tailed Sunbird faces threats from habitat loss due to huɱaп activities such as deforestation and agriculture. Climate change may also have an impact on their habitat and food sources, leading to declines in their population.
Efforts are being made to conserve the Green-tailed Sunbird and other bird species in Nepal. Protected areas have been established to preserve their natural habitats, and conservation organizations are working to raise awareness about the importance of protecting these birds and their ecosystems.