The Spectacled Spiderhunter (Arachnothera flavigaster) used to occur in Singapore, but no more. However, it is still a resident of nearby Malaysia.
As the name implies, it is supposed to hunt spiders. However, it is more known for its nectar diet than its animal diet. According to Wells (2007), its nectar source includes coconut (Cocos nucifera), coral tree (Erythrina spp.), rose apple (Syzygium jambos), durian (Durio zibethinus), African tulip (Spathodea campanulata), jacaranda (Jacaranda filicifolia), mata lembu (Firmiana malayana) and wild banana (Musa violacea).
Scarlet passion flower (Passiflora coccines) is now another nectar source for this spiderhunter. This is a semi-woody vine bearing large scarlet flower. The plant originates from Tropical America and is widely grown in many tropical country gardens and parks for its large and attractive flowers.
Input and image by Adrian Lim.
References:
1. Corner, E. J. H. (1988). Waysides trees of Malaya. Vol. 1-2. Malayan Nature Society, Kuala Lumpur.
2. Ng, F. S. P., 2006. Tropical horticulture and gardening. Kuala Lumpur: Clearwater Publication. 361 pp.
3. Wells, D.R., 2007. The birds of the Thai-Malay Peninsular. Vol. II, Passerines. Christopher Helm, London. 800 pp.
This post is a cooperative effort between www.naturepixels.org and BESG to bring the study of bird behaviour through photography to a wider audience.
