The Variable Sunbird: A Flashy Gem of Arusha, Tanzania

Male Variable Sunbird (Cinnyris venustus) with metallic blue-green head and yellow belly in Arusha, Tanzania.

The Variable Sunbird: A Flashy Gem of Arusha

The call of the Variable Sunbird (Cinnyris venustus)—a rhythmic tew-tew-tew-tew-tew—is one of the most iconic sounds of equatorial Africa. These flashy little avians are the "socialites" of the savanna; they often perch on the highest branches and are never shy about announcing their presence to the world!

A Study in Iridescence

The male, shown here, is truly brilliant. His head and nape shimmer with a “metallic” blue-green luster that contrasts sharply against a vibrant yellow belly. It’s a color palette that seems almost too bright to be real.

Beyond its beauty, the sunbird is a precision-engineered feeder. Its needle-like curved beak and specialized tubular tongue are perfect for extracting nectar from the deep bells of tropical flowers. While they look similar to hummingbirds, sunbirds are a distinct Old World family of birds.

Backyard Birding in Tanzania

I spotted this particular specimen enjoying a midday shower in the sprinklers at our lodge outside of Arusha, Tanzania. It’s a reminder that on safari, the magic doesn't just happen in the parks—sometimes it’s right outside your room!

Join the 2027 Expedition

Want to see the “jewels” of Arusha for yourself?

• February 2026: Sold Out.

• February 2027: Don't miss the "tew-tew" call in person! Email us (here’s the link) to join the 2027 Waitlist and get priority access to our next Tanzanian adventure.

Why the Superb Starling is Superb

Close-up of a Superb Starling with iridescent blue feathers and white breast band near Mount Kilimanjaro.

Arrival at Kilimanjaro: Meet My First Subject

Arrived at Kilimanjaro safely today. Trying to stay awake by playing with a new (used) camera body, lens, and a Superb starling (Lamprotornis superbus)!

You might wonder: why is this bird officially “Superb”? After spending an hour tracking one through the lens, the answer is clear.

It’s All About the Color

The iridescent plumage is breathtaking. Flashes of metallic blue, black, and green meet the eye at every turn. Because their color comes from the structure of their feathers rather than pigments, the sheen across their chest, back, and wings seems to shift and transform depending on how the sunlight hits it.

• The “Necklace”: Unlike their look-alike cousins, adults have a distinct white breast band that separates their shimmering blue chest from a fiery orange belly.

  Note: For more on their look-alikes, see our post “Hildebrandt’s Starling: The Colorful African Cousin of the Common Starling”

• Piercing Eyes: They sport striking creamy-white eyes that give them a sharp, alert, and slightly mischievous expression.

Personality & Attitude

These birds aren’t just eye candy; they are incredibly social and smart. They live in large, chatty flocks and are famously unafraid of humans, often hopping around picnic sites or safari vehicles with bold curiosity. They are the perfect “welcoming committee” for any African expedition.

See the Superb Starling for Yourself

You really need to see one in person to believe the intensity of their colors. They are living, flying gemstones of the savanna.

2026 Update: Our February expedition is officially SOLD OUT. All seats are taken!

Planning for 2027? Don't miss out on the next adventure. Email us here to get exclusive updates and be the first to know when 2027 reservations open.

Co-workers, Friends, Brothers

Counting co-workers as dear friends is a blessing. I can't say enough good things about Godwin (L), Ellie (R), Simon (not pictured), and the front office of the Africa Travel Bureau (ATB) in Arusha, Tanzania. Arusha is the "safari capital" of the world; the ATB plays at the highest levels of that game.