First observation of a brood patch on a male sunbird (Chalcomitra amethystina)

Abstract

Nest care and brooding in sunbirds (Nectariniidae) is thought to be performed exclusively by females. Here, we provide the first evidence that male sunbirds might help with brooding. During a ringing session in Hoekwil, South Africa, we observed one male Amethyst Sunbird (Chalcomitra amethystina) with a brood patch. Its sex was confirmed using molecular methods, and our observation suggests that nest care in sunbirds may at least in some cases be biparental.