Hofmann's sunbird (Cinnyris hofmanni) is a species of bird in the family Nectariniidae. It is endemic to eastern Tanzania.[1]
The International Ornithological Congress (IOC) recognizes Hofmann's sunbird as a species. However, the Clements taxonomy treats it as a subspecies of Shelley's sunbird, Cinnyris shelleyi.[2]
Hofmann's sunbird weighs approximately 8g and is 9to in length. The male in breeding plumage has an emerald green head, chest, and upper back; dark brown wings, tail, and belly; and a scarlet breast band. The female is grayish green above; the underparts are yellowish gray with darker streaking especially on the chest. Its wings and tail are dark brown. The non-breeding male's plumage is similar to that of the female but with a red breast band and black belly.[3]
Hofmann's sunbird is a year-round resident of eastern Tanzania. There it inhabits woodland, scrub, and gardens at elevations between 500and.[3]
Hofmann's sunbird's principal foods are nectar, insects, and spiders. It forages for arthropods in trees and reedbeds and nectars in flowering trees and shrubs. Its nest is usually in a bush and is made of leaves, bark, grass, and lichen held together with cobwebs. It has been recorded laying clutches of one or two eggs in February and April.[3]
Hofmann's sunbird is generally uncommon but locally common.[3] The IUCN has not assessed the species.