4048. PHOTOGRAPHY. The Ornate Sunbird.

 

TOA PAYOH VETS

 

The difference is primarily one of classification: the Ornate Sunbird is now recognized as a distinct species, while the name "Olive-backed Sunbird" (Cinnyris jugularis) is now used for a different species, specifically the Garden Sunbird (Cinnyris jugularis). The Ornate Sunbird (Cinnyris ornatus) was previously considered a subspecies of the larger Olive-backed Sunbird complex. For Singapore, the Ornate Sunbird is the species you would now see, while the name Olive-backed Sunbird is no longer correct for it. 

Key Points:

• Taxonomic Split:
  Scientific studies, particularly those based on DNA analysis, have led to the splitting of the formerly widespread "Olive-backed Sunbird" into several distinct species. 

• Ornate Sunbird:
  This new species, Cinnyris ornatus, is found in regions including Mainland Southeast Asia, Java, Borneo, and the Lesser Sunda Islands. 

• Garden Sunbird:
  The nominate form, which was previously the "Olive-backed Sunbird," is now designated as the Garden Sunbird, Cinnyris jugularis, and is primarily found in the Philippines. 

Geographic Relevance:
For Singapore, the "Olive-backed Sunbird" is now correctly called the Ornate Sunbird.


Ornate sunbird. Male has iridescent blue-black forehead and throat. Common resident in Singapore. Photo by Brian Peck. Zoom lens 500mm. Incorrectly named as "Olive-backed Sunbird" in Singapore's NParks website.

UPDATE:
https://2010vets.blogspot.com/2025/09/4048-photography-ornate-sunbird.html