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Purple Birds Identification Guide: 48 Unique Species With Pictures

Purple birds possess a rare beauty that captures the attention of birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Below is a comprehensive guide to 48 species of purple birds from across the globe. Each entry includes detailed descriptions alongside a table highlighting key attributes like scientific name, size, habitat, diet, and distinctive features.


1. Purple-Breasted Cotinga

The Purple-Breasted Cotinga, a vibrant bird found in the Amazon Basin, is known for its stunning purple and blue hues. Males exhibit a rich purple chest and bright blue head, while females are more muted in color.

Table of Contents

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameCotinga cotinga
Size18-20 cm
HabitatAmazon Rainforest
DietPrimarily fruits
Distinctive FeaturesIridescent purple chest, blue head

2. Violet-Crowned Hummingbird

This small hummingbird, common in Central America, sports a striking violet crown. It flits from flower to flower, sipping nectar with its slender beak and hovering with rapid wingbeats.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameAmazilia violiceps
Size10-12 cm
HabitatWoodlands, gardens
DietNectar and insects
Distinctive FeaturesViolet crown, iridescent feathers

3. Purple Martin

The Purple Martin is North America’s largest swallow, known for its sleek, glossy purple-black plumage in males. These birds are highly social and often nest in colonies near human settlements.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameProgne subis
Size20 cm
HabitatOpen areas near water
DietInsects
Distinctive FeaturesGlossy purple-black color, colony-nester

4. Violet-Backed Starling

Native to sub-Saharan Africa, the Violet-Backed Starling is often recognized for its vibrant plumage and is also known as the Plum-colored Starling. Males are primarily violet with white underparts, while females have more subdued coloring.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameCinnyricinclus leucogaster
Size17-19 cm
HabitatSavannas, woodlands
DietFruits, insects
Distinctive FeaturesViolet plumage, white belly in males

5. Purple Sunbird

The Purple Sunbird, found in South and Southeast Asia, exhibits deep purple and metallic blue hues during breeding season, especially in males. These birds are small, agile, and known for their affinity to nectar.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameCinnyris asiaticus
Size10 cm
HabitatGardens, forests, scrublands
DietNectar, small insects
Distinctive FeaturesDeep purple, metallic sheen in males

6. Varied Bunting

A North American bird, the Varied Bunting is prized for its mix of purple, red, and blue colors in males. These birds are commonly found in arid and semi-arid environments, where they nest in low shrubs.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NamePasserina versicolor
Size12-14 cm
HabitatDesert scrub, thorn forests
DietSeeds, insects
Distinctive FeaturesPurple, blue, and red mix in males

7. Splendid Sunbird

With iridescent purple, red, and blue hues, the Splendid Sunbird is a small, energetic bird found across tropical Africa. Males are particularly colorful, while females are more understated in appearance.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameCinnyris coccinigaster
Size12 cm
HabitatSavannahs, woodlands
DietNectar, insects
Distinctive FeaturesIridescent purple and red feathers

8. Purple Gallinule

Known for its colorful blend of purple, blue, and green, the Purple Gallinule is often spotted in marshes and swamps. This bird is notable for its vibrant plumage and long toes, which help it walk on floating vegetation.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NamePorphyrio martinica
Size26-37 cm
HabitatMarshes, wetlands
DietSeeds, small fish, insects
Distinctive FeaturesPurple-blue body, yellow legs

Continuing with the list in markdown, I’ll add more birds with individual tables for easy identification:


9. Purple Honeycreeper

Found in the tropical forests of South America, the Purple Honeycreeper is a small, vibrant bird with a purple-blue body and contrasting black wings. Males are more vividly colored than females, who have a greenish hue.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameCyanerpes caeruleus
Size10-11 cm
HabitatTropical forests, plantations
DietFruits, nectar, insects
Distinctive FeaturesPurple body, black wings

10. Purple Grenadier

This small, striking bird is native to eastern Africa, where it inhabits dry savannas and thorny shrubs. The male features a purple body with a bright red face, while females are mostly brown with touches of purple.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameUraeginthus ianthinogaster
Size13 cm
HabitatSavannas, arid scrublands
DietSeeds, small insects
Distinctive FeaturesPurple body, red face in males

11. Purple Swamphen

A large, colorful bird with shades of purple, blue, and green, the Purple Swamphen is often found near freshwater marshes. Known for its long red legs and red beak, it can walk over water vegetation with ease.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NamePorphyrio porphyrio
Size45-50 cm
HabitatFreshwater marshes, wetlands
DietAquatic plants, invertebrates
Distinctive FeaturesPurple-blue feathers, red beak

12. Purple Finch

Native to North America, the Purple Finch is a small bird often confused with the House Finch. Males exhibit a rosy-purple color on their head and chest, while females are brown with streaks.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameHaemorhous purpureus
Size15 cm
HabitatForest edges, parks, gardens
DietSeeds, berries, insects
Distinctive FeaturesRosy-purple in males, streaked brown in females

13. Asian Fairy Bluebird

A striking bird native to the forests of Southeast Asia, the Asian Fairy Bluebird exhibits a deep blue-purple plumage in males. Females are typically greenish-blue.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameIrena puella
Size24-27 cm
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests
DietFruits, nectar, insects
Distinctive FeaturesDeep blue-purple in males, long tail

14. Purple-Crowned Lorikeet

The Purple-Crowned Lorikeet is native to southwestern Australia. This small parrot has a striking purple crown, with a body that combines green, yellow, and blue hues.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameGlossopsitta porphyrocephala
Size15 cm
HabitatWoodlands, forests, coastal regions
DietNectar, pollen, fruits
Distinctive FeaturesPurple crown, vibrant multicolored plumage

15. Rufous-Vented Chachalaca

This large bird, native to South America, has a dark brown and purplish body. It is found in tropical lowlands and is known for its loud calls and gregarious nature.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameOrtalis ruficauda
Size50 cm
HabitatTropical lowlands, forests
DietFruits, seeds, leaves
Distinctive FeaturesPurple-brown plumage, loud calls

16. Purple Roller

Native to Africa, the Purple Roller is a large bird with a reddish-purple body, green wings, and blue accents. It is often seen perched high in trees, where it scans for prey.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameCoracias naevius
Size35-40 cm
HabitatSavannas, woodlands
DietInsects, small reptiles
Distinctive FeaturesReddish-purple body, green wings

17. Purple-Throated Fruitcrow

A bird of the Amazon Basin, the male Purple-Throated Fruitcrow has a distinct purple throat that stands out against its otherwise black body. These birds are known for their loud, resonant calls.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameQuerula purpurata
Size27-29 cm
HabitatRainforests
DietFruits, insects
Distinctive FeaturesPurple throat, loud calls

18. Purple-Banded Sunbird

Found in East Africa, the Purple-Banded Sunbird has a vibrant purple band across its chest, set against a green and yellow body. This bird is typically seen hovering around flowers to feed on nectar.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameCinnyris bifasciatus
Size10-11 cm
HabitatWoodlands, savannas
DietNectar, small insects
Distinctive FeaturesPurple chest band, small size

Continuing with more purple bird species in markdown format, here are additional entries in the list, each with an informative table.


19. Purple-Throated Mountain-gem

The Purple-Throated Mountain-gem, a hummingbird native to the mountains of Central America, is known for the vibrant purple throat of the male. This species lives in higher altitudes, hovering around flowers in search of nectar.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameLampornis calolaemus
Size10-12 cm
HabitatCloud forests, highlands
DietNectar, small insects
Distinctive FeaturesIridescent purple throat in males

20. Purple-Crowned Fairy

A delicate, colorful hummingbird, the Purple-Crowned Fairy is recognized for its purple crown and white underparts. It flits gracefully through forests in Central and South America, feeding on nectar and small insects.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameHeliothryx barroti
Size12 cm
HabitatRainforests
DietNectar, small insects
Distinctive FeaturesPurple crown, white underparts

21. Purple-Winged Roller

Native to Southeast Asia, the Purple-Winged Roller has a blend of blue and purple hues on its wings and body. It’s often found perched in open woodlands and feeds on insects and small reptiles.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameCoracias temminckii
Size32-35 cm
HabitatForest edges, open woodlands
DietInsects, small reptiles
Distinctive FeaturesPurple wings, robust body

22. Purple-Naped Lory

This striking parrot, native to Indonesia, has a beautiful combination of purple on its nape and green on its wings and body. Known for its bright colors, it is often seen in treetops, feeding on fruits and nectar.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameLorius domicella
Size28-30 cm
HabitatTropical forests, coastal areas
DietFruits, nectar
Distinctive FeaturesPurple nape, bright green body

23. Amethyst Starling

The Amethyst Starling, also known as the Violet-Backed Starling, is native to sub-Saharan Africa. The male exhibits stunning iridescent purple plumage, making it one of the most vividly colored birds in its range.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameCinnyricinclus leucogaster
Size17-19 cm
HabitatSavannas, open woodlands
DietFruits, insects
Distinctive FeaturesIridescent purple body in males

24. Purple-Coated Fruit-Dove

A rare and beautiful bird, the Purple-Coated Fruit-Dove has a mix of green and purple plumage. It’s mostly found in the tropical forests of Indonesia and feeds on various types of fruit.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NamePtilinopus porphyreus
Size22-24 cm
HabitatTropical rainforests
DietFruits
Distinctive FeaturesPurple and green plumage

25. Purple Starling

The Purple Starling, often found in sub-Saharan Africa, is known for its shiny, metallic purple feathers. These birds are often seen in flocks, especially in open areas where they search for insects.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameLamprotornis purpureus
Size20-23 cm
HabitatWoodlands, savannas, grasslands
DietInsects, fruits
Distinctive FeaturesMetallic purple plumage

26. Reddish-Purple Sunbird

This vibrant species is known for its unique blend of purple and red feathers. The Reddish-Purple Sunbird is native to the forests of Southeast Asia, where it feeds on nectar and occasionally insects.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameAethopyga siparaja
Size12-13 cm
HabitatTropical forests, gardens
DietNectar, small insects
Distinctive FeaturesPurple and red plumage

27. Purple-Rumped Sunbird

Native to India and Sri Lanka, the Purple-Rumped Sunbird displays a combination of purple and green on its body. This small, energetic bird is commonly seen in gardens, where it sips nectar from flowers.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameLeptocoma zeylonica
Size8-10 cm
HabitatGardens, forests
DietNectar, insects
Distinctive FeaturesPurple rump, greenish back

28. Purple-Bellied Lory

The Purple-Bellied Lory is a bright parrot from New Guinea with a unique mix of purple and red on its belly and head. This colorful bird is usually found in treetops, feeding on nectar, fruits, and pollen.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameLorius hypoinochrous
Size26-30 cm
HabitatTropical forests
DietNectar, fruits, pollen
Distinctive FeaturesPurple belly, red head

Continuing the list with more purple bird species, each entry below includes descriptive tables to facilitate identification and highlight each bird’s unique characteristics.


29. Purple-Backed Sunbeam

The Purple-Backed Sunbeam, native to Peru, is a rare hummingbird recognized for its iridescent purple back. Males and females have a blend of dark purple and green feathers.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameAglaeactis aliciae
Size11-13 cm
HabitatCloud forests, highlands
DietNectar, small insects
Distinctive FeaturesIridescent purple back

30. Purple-Fronted Parrotlet

This tiny parrot, native to South America, has a purple forehead with green and blue body plumage. It’s usually found in pairs or small flocks, feeding on seeds and fruit in forested areas.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameForpus xanthops
Size12 cm
HabitatTropical forests, woodlands
DietSeeds, fruits
Distinctive FeaturesPurple forehead, small size

31. Purple-Winged Ground Dove

A critically endangered species from South America, the Purple-Winged Ground Dove has a soft purple tint on its wings and breast. Its elusive nature makes sightings rare.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameParaclaravis geoffroyi
Size15-16 cm
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests
DietSeeds, fruits
Distinctive FeaturesPurple wings, grayish body

32. Purple-Winged Pigeon

The Purple-Winged Pigeon is a large bird native to the forests of Papua New Guinea. It has a distinct purple sheen on its wings, contrasting with its gray body, and is known for its soft cooing calls.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NamePtilinopus magnificus
Size30-35 cm
HabitatForests, woodlands
DietFruits, berries
Distinctive FeaturesPurple wings, soft cooing sounds

33. Purple-Headed Parrotfinch

This small, lively bird from the tropical forests of Southeast Asia sports a unique purple head and a bright green body. Known for its acrobatic foraging, it feeds mainly on seeds and insects.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameErythrura cyaneovirens
Size11 cm
HabitatForest edges, gardens
DietSeeds, small insects
Distinctive FeaturesPurple head, bright green body

34. Purple-Headed Lorikeet

A vibrantly colored lorikeet, the Purple-Headed Lorikeet is found in New Guinea. Its head is deep purple, while the body is adorned with red, green, and yellow. These birds are often seen in noisy flocks feeding on nectar.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameLorius domicella
Size27 cm
HabitatTropical rainforests
DietNectar, fruits
Distinctive FeaturesPurple head, multi-colored body

35. Purple-Breasted Sunbird

The Purple-Breasted Sunbird is an East African species known for the male’s glossy purple breast and contrasting dark green body. Females are more muted in color, with olive and brown tones.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameNectarinia purpureiventris
Size12 cm
HabitatWoodlands, savannas
DietNectar, insects
Distinctive FeaturesGlossy purple breast in males

36. Purple Finch

The Purple Finch, native to North America, is often mistaken for the House Finch. Males display a purplish-red wash on their body, while females are streaked brown.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameHaemorhous purpureus
Size15 cm
HabitatForests, parks, gardens
DietSeeds, berries
Distinctive FeaturesPurplish-red plumage in males

37. Violet Cuckoo

The Violet Cuckoo, found in Southeast Asia, has a striking purple body with a bright orange bill. This small, elusive bird is known for its high-pitched calls and rapid movements through dense foliage.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameChrysococcyx xanthorhynchus
Size17 cm
HabitatForests, mangroves
DietInsects, caterpillars
Distinctive FeaturesPurple body, orange bill

38. Violet-Capped Woodnymph

This beautiful hummingbird, native to South America, features a violet cap and green plumage. Males are particularly eye-catching with their iridescent coloring, and they’re often seen hovering around flowers.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameThalurania glaucopis
Size11-12 cm
HabitatForests, gardens
DietNectar, small insects
Distinctive FeaturesViolet cap, green body

39. Purple-Crowned Fairywren

Native to Australia, the Purple-Crowned Fairywren is recognized for its purple crown and vibrant blue body. These small, social birds are often seen in family groups in open woodlands.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameMalurus coronatus
Size11-12 cm
HabitatGrasslands, woodlands
DietInsects, seeds
Distinctive FeaturesPurple crown, blue body in males

Continuing with more purple bird species descriptions in markdown format:


40. Violet-Fronted Brilliant

The Violet-Fronted Brilliant is a colorful hummingbird from the Andean forests of South America. Males have a violet patch on their foreheads, while both sexes display vibrant green and bronze hues.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameHeliodoxa leadbeateri
Size11-13 cm
HabitatCloud forests, montane regions
DietNectar, insects
Distinctive FeaturesViolet forehead, metallic green body

41. Purple-Crowned Fairy

The Purple-Crowned Fairy is a graceful hummingbird found in Central and South American rainforests. Its striking purple crown and long tail distinguish it from other hummingbirds in the region.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameHeliothryx barroti
Size12 cm
HabitatRainforests
DietNectar, small insects
Distinctive FeaturesPurple crown, long tail feathers

42. Red-Legged Honeycreeper

This small bird of Central and South America displays vibrant blue-purple plumage, with red legs providing a contrasting accent. It’s often seen in pairs or small flocks searching for fruits and nectar.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameCyanerpes cyaneus
Size10-12 cm
HabitatForests, plantations
DietNectar, fruits, insects
Distinctive FeaturesBlue-purple body, red legs

43. Purple-Throated Carib

Native to the Caribbean islands, the Purple-Throated Carib is a medium-sized hummingbird known for its vibrant purple throat and green body. Its curved beak is adapted for sipping nectar from deep flowers.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameEulampis jugularis
Size11-12 cm
HabitatTropical forests, gardens
DietNectar, small insects
Distinctive FeaturesPurple throat, iridescent green body

44. Violet-Bellied Hummingbird

A brilliantly colored species, the Violet-Bellied Hummingbird is native to Central and South America. Males exhibit a deep violet belly, while females are generally green with faint violet accents.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameJuliamyia julie
Size10-11 cm
HabitatForests, gardens
DietNectar, small insects
Distinctive FeaturesViolet belly, metallic green feathers

45. Purple-Backed Sunbird

The Purple-Backed Sunbird, native to the Philippines, is known for the male’s stunning purple back and contrasting white underparts. They’re highly active, moving rapidly between flowers to feed on nectar.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameLeptocoma sperata
Size9-10 cm
HabitatForests, shrublands
DietNectar, small insects
Distinctive FeaturesGlossy purple back, small size

46. Violet-Crowned Plovercrest

This unique hummingbird from the Brazilian highlands features a violet crown and a long, crest-like feather on its head. Known for its distinctive calls, it’s usually found in open woodlands and scrublands.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameStephanoxis lalandi
Size11 cm
HabitatWoodlands, scrublands
DietNectar, small insects
Distinctive FeaturesViolet crown, crest-like feather

47. Violet-Necked Lory

The Violet-Necked Lory, found in New Guinea and nearby islands, has a unique violet neck and green and red body, which allows it to blend into tropical forest foliage while feeding on nectar and fruit.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameEos squamata
Size26-28 cm
HabitatTropical rainforests
DietNectar, fruits
Distinctive FeaturesViolet neck, bright red and green plumage

48. Purple Sunangel

The Purple Sunangel is an elusive hummingbird species found in Andean cloud forests. Males have a remarkable violet and blue iridescent throat, while females are slightly more subdued in coloration.

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameHeliangelus viola
Size10-12 cm
HabitatCloud forests
DietNectar, small insects
Distinctive FeaturesIridescent purple throat in males

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What makes a bird’s feathers appear purple?

Purple coloration in birds is often due to structural color, where feather microstructures reflect light in specific ways, rather than pigments.

2. How can I identify purple birds in the wild?

Look for iridescent or deep violet hues, especially on the head, chest, or wings. For detailed species information, consult field guides or identification apps.

3. Are purple birds rare?

Many purple birds are found in tropical or specific ecosystems, making them less common in temperate zones but frequently sighted in rainforests and coastal regions.

4. Do purple birds use their color for camouflage?

In some cases, purple helps with camouflage among flowers or in shaded forest areas, but it’s often used to attract mates or deter rivals.

5. What do purple birds typically eat?

Diet varies but commonly includes nectar, fruits, insects, and seeds. Hummingbirds and sunbirds, for example, favor nectar and small insects.

6. Can I attract purple birds to my backyard?

Yes, by planting native flowering plants, providing nectar feeders, and creating a habitat with shrubs and trees.

7. What is the most famous purple bird?

The Purple Martin is well-known in North America and frequently attracts birdwatchers due to its social nature and glossy purple-black feathers.

8. Where are most purple birds found?

Many species are native to tropical and subtropical regions like Southeast Asia, Central and South America, and parts of Africa.

9. Why do male purple birds often have brighter colors than females?

Bright colors in males serve as a visual signal to attract females and establish dominance, especially during breeding season.

10. Are purple parrots common?

Some purple parrot species, like the Violet-Necked Lory, are found in specific regions, but purple is rare among parrots.

11. What role does the purple color play in mating?

In many species, males display vibrant purple feathers to attract females, signaling good health and strong genetics.

12. What types of habitats support purple birds?

Purple birds are found in rainforests, savannas, woodlands, coastal regions, and even wetlands, depending on the species.

13. How can I photograph purple birds effectively?

Use natural light, and photograph in the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting. A zoom lens helps capture detail without disturbing the bird.

14. Are any purple birds endangered?

Yes, species like the Purple-Winged Ground Dove are critically endangered due to habitat loss and hunting.

15. What is structural coloration in birds?

Structural coloration occurs when feather microstructures reflect specific wavelengths, resulting in colors like purple, blue, and green.

16. Do purple birds migrate?

Yes, some species, like the Purple Martin, are migratory, traveling between North and South America seasonally.

17. Which bird has the deepest purple feathers?

The Violet-Backed Starling and the Purple-Crowned Lorikeet are known for their rich, deep violet hues.

18. How does the purple color help birds in the wild?

Besides mating, it can help with camouflage in forested or flowery environments, where purple tones blend well.

19. What is the lifespan of purple birds?

Lifespan varies; small birds like hummingbirds live 3-5 years, while larger species like Purple Martins can live up to 10 years in the wild.

20. What’s the difference between purple and iridescent purple feathers?

True purple feathers have pigments, while iridescent purple feathers change color with light due to structural coloration.

Final Reflections

Purple birds are a unique group that captivates bird enthusiasts worldwide with their brilliant hues, intricate behaviors, and diverse habitats. Their color, often from specialized feather structures rather than pigments, makes them visually striking and highly prized for observation and photography. Encountering these birds offers a glimpse into the complex beauty of avian life, highlighting the importance of preserving their habitats for future generations.

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