Crimson-Backed Sunbird

Photo by Debo The Crimson-backed Sunbird (Leptocoma minima) is one of the smallest and most dazzling birds found in the Western Ghats of India. Measuring just around 8 cm in length, this energetic bird is easily recognized by the male’s deep crimson back, metallic green crown, and glossy purple throat that shimmer in sunlight. Habitat and Behavior Crimson-backed Sunbirds thrive in moist evergreen forests, plantations, and even gardens. They’re primarily nectarivorous, often seen darting between flowers with rapid wingbeats, much like hummingbirds. However, they don’t hover as long—instead, they often perch while feeding. ...