Discovering the Captivating Orange-Breasted Sunbirds of the Fynbos Biome

Ah, the enchanting Fynbos Biome, also known as the Cape Floral Kingdom! Amongst the world’s six distinguished floral kingdoms, this remarkable gem stands apart. Its fame is well-deserved, as it boasts an extraordinary array of bird species, each more marvelous than the last (find out more about the astonishing birds residing in the Cape Floral Kingdom). Yet, among these avian wonders, one particular species has captivated my heart: the orange-breasted sunbird.

As a resident of Plettenberg Bay, nestled in the Western Cape, I am incredibly fortunate to have the Fynbos Biome at my very doorstep. Every day, I’m blessed with boundless opportunities to immerse myself in nature’s embrace. Amongst these soul-nourishing surroundings, Robberg Nature Reserve holds a special place in my heart.

I’m a passionate birdwatcher, and there’s nothing I enjoy more than sharing my discoveries with others. It’s always an exciting moment when I come across a beautiful bird and get the chance to show it to someone who may have never seen it before. One memory that stands out is when I spotted an orange-breasted sunbird and had the pleasure of introducing it to a couple who were regular hikers in the area.

The orange-breasted sunbird is a stunning bird, and its colorful plumage never fails to capture attention. When I pointed out the bird to the couple, I could see the amazement in their eyes. It was their first time seeing this particular species, and it was a special moment for all of us.

Winter is an important time for orange-breasted sunbirds. It’s a time when they start nesting, which means there’s a lot of activity if you’re paying attention. I remember the day I went to Robberg Nature Reserve hoping to capture a good photo of a male orange-breasted sunbird. As I was walking, I spotted a female sunbird perched on top of an Erica plant with an insect in her beak. I knew this was nesting time, so I stood quietly and waited to see where she would go. Eventually, I saw her dive into the center of a small bush, and I saw the insect disappear into one of the two wide-open mouths.

A female orange-breasted sunbird feeding her hungry chicks.

Whenever you see a bird, it’s important to approach it with caution and respect. Treat it as if you were encountering a powerful buffalo. Recently, while driving to the parking lot of Robberg Nature Reserve, I came across a male orange-breasted sunbird perched on a bitou plant near the road. I parked my car and hurried to the spot where I had seen the bird. Luckily, I was able to catch a glimpse of the male bird, as well as a female and what appeared to be a young sunbird with an orange gape around its bill.

A female orange-breasted sunbird with food for her chicks.

Nature has a way of revealing incredible wonders, both big and small, if you know how to look for them.