Notes on distribution and behaviour of the Rufous-winged Sunbird <i>Cinnyris rufipennis</i>

Abstract

Rufous-winged Sunbird Cinnyris rufipennis is known only from Udzungwa Mountains in central Tanzania where it occurs in nine montane forests. Based on field surveys between 2011 and 2014, supplemented by observations made by all authors since the early 1990s, we provide a map showing its distribution and relative abundance. We estimate the size of the core areas where Rufous-winged Sunbird is common to c. 120 km2 and the total range to about 200 km². We also provide data that suggests that breeding takes place during the rainy season from November to February with the breeding area usually centred on a forest glade or tree-fall gap. Finally, we describe observations of presumed lekking courtship display with up to three males assembling in a clearing and excitedly hopping from branch to branch, singing aggressively at each other with a single female observing.