Variable sunbird in Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

The variable sunbird (or yellow-bellied sunbird) is a passerine bird which feed largely on nectar, although it will also take insects, especially when feeding young. Flight is fast and direct on their short wings. Most species can take nectar by hovering like a hummingbird, but usually perch to feed most of the time.

The variable sunbird is a fairly common resident breeder in equatorial Africa.