Cape Sugarbird
Promerops cafer
Endemic jewel of the Cape fynbos — the king protea's faithful pollinator
Habitat
Fynbos heathlands of the Western and Eastern Cape, South Africa
Diet
Nectar from proteas and ericas, supplemented with insects and spiders
Lifespan
7–10 years
Weight
25–45 g
About the Cape Sugarbird
The Cape Sugarbird is one of South Africa's most iconic endemic birds — found nowhere else on Earth except the fynbos biome of the Western and Eastern Cape. Males sport extraordinarily long tail feathers (up to 34 cm — longer than the body) and deliver a melodious song from the top of protea bushes. They are intimately linked to the king protea — South Africa's national flower — feeding on nectar and pollinating in return. Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden and Table Mountain are prime viewing locations.
Habitat & Diet
Habitat
Fynbos heathlands of the Western and Eastern Cape, South Africa — exclusively
Diet
Nectar from proteas and ericas, supplemented with insects and spiders
Lifespan
7–10 years
Weight
25–45 g
Best Viewing Locations
- Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden
- Table Mountain
- Harold Porter Garden (Betty's Bay)
Fascinating Facts About Cape Sugarbird
The male's tail feathers can be twice his body length — the longest relative to body size of any passerine
They are the primary pollinators of king proteas — South Africa's national flower
Cape Sugarbirds exist only in the fynbos biome — one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth
Their tongue is brush-tipped to lap up nectar, similar to a hummingbird
They were depicted on the old South African 1-cent coin
Safari Packages to See Cape Sugarbird
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