Amethyst Sunbird (Chalcomitra amethystina)

Amethyst Sunbird Chalcomitra amethystina is a common forest edge bird throughout southern Africa. Sunbirds are often said to be the Old World equivalent of hummingbirds, which live only in the Americas. Both consume nectar (and tend to have long, thin bills for this purpose) and both often have iridescent feathers on the head and throat. Unlike hummingbirds, however, sunbirds are not able to hover.

Photo © Federico Pardo / The Field Museum