If you’re an avid birdwatcher or simply curious about our feathered friends, you might wonder “Are there any black birds with green heads?”. Yes, there are black birds with green heads. But, other than Common grackles, you might not see any birds fall into this criterion in the USA.
Black birds with striking green heads hold a special allure, captivating both enthusiasts and casual observers alike.
Join us as we explore 17 species of these mesmerizing birds, providing you with photos and an identification guide. You will find that most of these birds are small birds like sunbirds.
Get ready to delve into the world of these remarkable avian wonders!
1 – Stephanie’s Astrapia
Quick Identification Guide of Stephanie’s Astrapia
- Size: Stephanie’s Astrapia is a medium-sized bird, measuring around 11-14.5 inches (28-37 cm) in length.
- Body Color: The body of Stephanie’s Astrapia displays a velvety black coloration, providing a stunning contrast to its vibrant head.
- Head Color: The male Stephanie’s Astrapia boasts a brilliant iridescent green head, radiating a captivating sheen. In contrast, the female showcases a predominantly black head with small green patches.
- Unique Distinguishing Features: Both males and females possess long, slender tails, enhancing their graceful appearance. The males’ magnificent plumage extends to their upper breast, forming an eye-catching breast shield. In addition, they exhibit elongated and curved tail feathers called “streamers,” adding to their distinctiveness.
- Bill, Legs, and Feet: Stephanie’s Astrapia sports a robust black bill and sturdy black legs with talons suited for perching and foraging.
Stephanie’s Astrapia (Astrapia stephaniae), an avian gem native to the pristine forests of Papua New Guinea, mesmerizes with its elegance and splendor.
This medium-sized bird showcases a velvety black body, accentuating the magnificence of its head.
The male Stephanie’s Astrapia proudly exhibits an iridescent green head that glimmers in the sunlight, while the female displays small green patches amidst her predominantly black head.
The males’ extravagant plumage extends to their upper breast, forming a captivating breast shield, and their elongated tail feathers, known as “streamers,” add a touch of grandeur.
With a robust black bill and sturdy legs, it is well-equipped for its habitat, which includes the lush montane forests and subalpine grasslands.
These remarkable birds primarily feed on nectar, fruits, and insects, enchanting observers with their presence within a restricted range in Papua New Guinea.
2 – Common Grackle
Quick Identification Guide of Common Grackle
- Size: The Common Grackle is a medium-sized bird, measuring approximately 11-13 inches (28-34 cm) in length.
- Body Color: The body of the Common Grackle showcases a glossy black coloration, which appears iridescent under sunlight.
- Head Color: Both male and female Common Grackles have heads that appear black from a distance. However, upon closer observation, you can notice a beautiful metallic sheen, with males displaying a blue-green iridescence and females showcasing a slightly more subdued bronze or brown sheen.
- Unique Distinguishing Features: The Common Grackle has a long, keel-shaped tail that enhances its overall appearance. Additionally, in flight, its wings reveal a contrasting whitish-gray coloration.
- Bill, Legs, and Feet: Common Grackles possess strong, black bills that are slightly curved, perfect for their omnivorous diet. They also have long legs and feet that aid in foraging on the ground and perching on branches.
The Common Grackle (Quiscalus quiscula), is a charismatic bird found across much of North America. This medium-sized bird captivates observers with its glossy black plumage.
While the Common Grackle’s head may appear uniformly black from afar, a closer look reveals a stunning metallic sheen, depending on the angle of the sunlight this sheen may look bluish or greenish. Thus some people may see this species as a bird with a green head.
The males display a striking purplish-blue iridescence, reminiscent of an oil slick shimmering in the sun, while the females exhibit a more subtle bronze or brown sheen. These grackles boast a distinctive long tail, resembling a keel, and their wings showcase a contrasting whitish-gray hue during flight.
With their strong, curved bills, they readily indulge in an omnivorous diet, foraging on the ground and perching on branches. From urban environments to open woodlands, the Common Grackle thrives in a diverse range of habitats across its extensive North American range.
3 – Velvet Asity
Quick Identification Guide of Velvet Asity
- Size: The Velvet Asity is a small bird, measuring around 5.5 to 6.3 inches (14-16 cm) in length.
- Body Color: The body of the Velvet Asity is predominantly black.
- Unique Distinguishable Colors or Patterns: Both male and female Velvet Asities have a vibrant green head, which is a key feature for identification. Additionally, males display unique turquoise-blue patches on their wings and lower back.
- Bill: The bill of the Velvet Asity is short and slightly curved.
- Legs and Feet: The bird has slender legs and small feet.
The Velvet Asity (Philepitta castanea) is a charming bird native to the lush rainforests of Madagascar, the fourth-largest island in the world.
With its small size and predominantly black body, the Velvet Asity may seem inconspicuous at first glance. However, it is the vibrant green head that truly sets this species apart.
Both male and female flaunt a brilliant emerald crown, making them a sight to behold. In addition, male Velvet Asities showcase stunning turquoise-blue patches on their wings and lower back, adding a touch of elegance to their appearance.
These birds primarily inhabit the dense forests of Madagascar, where they feed on nectar, insects, and small fruits. Keep an eye out for these delightful creatures as you explore the diverse habitats of Madagascar’s rainforests.
4 – Splendid Astrapia
Take a look at photos of Splendid Astrapia in ebird (Click here).
Quick Identification Guide of Splendid Astrapia
- Size: The Splendid Astrapia is a medium-sized bird, measuring approximately 15 inches (32-36 cm) in length.
- Body color: The male has predominantly black plumage with a glossy bluish-green sheen, while the female has dark brown plumage.
- Unique Distinguishing Features: The male possesses an iridescent green head and throat, with elongated plumes on the sides of its body. Its breast and abdomen are adorned with a dazzling array of metallic green, purple, and blue feathers. The female lacks these extravagant ornaments.
- Bill: Both males and females have relatively short, black bills with a slight downward curve.
- Legs and Feet: black.
The Splendid Astrapia (Astrapia splendidissima), an exquisite bird found in the rainforests of New Guinea, captivates observers with its stunning appearance.
The male, adorned in glossy black plumage with a mesmerizing bluish-green sheen, boasts an iridescent green head and throat. Elongated plumes on the sides of its body further enhance its grandeur.
As it gracefully flits through the forest canopy, its breast and abdomen shimmer with a magnificent display of metallic green, purple, and blue feathers. On the other hand, the female, with her dark brown plumage, exudes her own charm.
These birds inhabit the lush habitats of New Guinea’s rainforests, where they feed on a varied diet that includes fruits, nectar, and small invertebrates. But sometimes they feed on frogs and lizards as well.
The Splendid Astrapia’s range extends across the central and mostly western parts of the island, making it a true gem of Papua New Guinea’s avian biodiversity.
5 – Green-throated Sunbird
Quick Identification Guide of Green-throated Sunbird
- Size: The Green-throated Sunbird is a small bird, measuring about 4.7-5.1 inches (12-13 cm) in length.
- Body color: Both males and females have predominantly olive-green plumage on their upperparts, while the underparts are a lighter yellowish-green.
- Unique Distinguishing Features: The male Green-throated Sunbird exhibits a vibrant green forehead, throat and chest, which contrast beautifully with the rest of its plumage. It also displays elongated, pointed tail feathers. The female lacks the vibrant green throat and chest, instead having a more subdued coloration throughout.
- Bill: Slender and slightly curved, enabling it to probe deep into flowers for nectar.
- Legs and Feet: Small and dainty, adapted for perching and maneuvering among flowers.
The Green-throated Sunbird (Chalcomitra rubescens), a delightful avian species, originates from the enchanting landscapes of Central Africa.
Its habitats encompass a wide range, including tropical rainforests, gardens, and wooded areas.
This sunbird is a master of maneuvering among flowers.
Adorned in an olive-green plumage on its upperparts and a lighter yellowish-green on its underparts, both males and females bring a touch of vibrancy to their surroundings.
However, it is the male that steals the show with his striking green throat and chest, creating a captivating contrast.
The elongated, pointed tail feathers further accentuate his charm. The Green-throated Sunbird sustains itself on a diet primarily composed of nectar, which it skillfully extracts with its slender, curved bill.
Its range extends throughout Cameroon, Nigeria, South Sudan, Angola, Zambia, Uganda, Congo and Tanzania, making it a beloved visitor to many gardens and nature reserves in the region.
6 – Scarlet-chested Sunbird
Quick Identification Guide of Scarlet-chested Sunbird
- Size: The Scarlet-chested Sunbird is a small bird, measuring around 5.1-5.9 inches (12-15 cm) in length.
- Body color: Both males and females have predominantly olive-green plumage on their upperparts, while the underparts are a vibrant scarlet color.
- Unique Distinguishing Features: Male Scarlet-chested Sunbird exhibits a dazzling scarlet chest that is impossible to miss. The upperparts of the male are also adorned with iridescent shades of green, especially the forehead.
- Females, on the other hand, display a more subdued coloration throughout their plumage.
- Bill: Slender and slightly curved, adapted for reaching deep into flowers to extract nectar.
- Legs and Feet: This sunbird species possesses small and delicate legs and feet, ideal for perching and maneuvering within floral environments.
The Scarlet-chested Sunbird (Chalcomitra senegalensis), a charming creature, hails from the picturesque landscapes of Sub-Saharan Africa.
It finds solace in a diverse range of habitats, including woodlands, savannas, and gardens, adding vibrant hues to these environments.
Its upperparts boast an attractive olive-green coloration, creating a lovely backdrop for its most distinctive feature. In the male, the underparts burst forth in a captivating scarlet hue, stealing the spotlight with their brilliance.
Alongside this fiery chest, the male showcases iridescent shades of green on his upperparts, including head, further enhancing his allure.
The female, while not as flamboyant, exhibits her own unique charm with a more understated coloration.
Both genders utilize their slender, curved bills to access the sweet nectar hidden within flowers.
From Sub-Saharan Africa, the Scarlet-chested Sunbird spreads its joyous presence across various countries, making it a beloved sight to behold.
7 – Amethyst Sunbird
Quick Identification Guide of Amethyst Sunbird
- Size: The Amethyst Sunbird is a small bird, measuring approximately 4 to 5.9 inches (10-15 cm) in length.
- Body color: Both males and females have predominantly dark purple or amethyst-colored plumage on their upperparts, while the underparts are a lighter shade of purple or lavender.
- Unique Distinguishing Features: The male Amethyst Sunbird exhibits a metallic green head and a striking metallic green patch on its throat. In certain lighting conditions, the plumage can appear to have a radiant blue sheen. The female shares the same overall coloration but lacks the vibrant metallic green head and throat.
- Bill: The bill of the Amethyst Sunbird is slender and slightly curved, enabling it to access the nectar within flowers.
- Legs and Feet: This sunbird species possesses small and delicate legs and feet, suitable for perching and navigating floral environments.
Originating from the enchanting landscapes of Sub-Saharan Africa, the Amethyst Sunbird (Chalcomitra amethystina) brings a touch of elegance to its habitats.
Found in a variety of settings such as woodlands, gardens, and coastal areas, this small avian species enchants onlookers with its captivating presence.
It gracefully flits among the foliage, showcasing its beautiful plumage. Both males and females don coats of dark purple or amethyst-colored feathers on their upperparts, while their underparts boast a lighter shade of purple or lavender.
The male is further adorned with a metallic green head and a dazzling metallic green patch on its throat. In certain lighting conditions, a radiant blue sheen may be observed on its plumage.
The female, while less flamboyant, carries the same overall coloration. With their slender, curved bills, Amethyst Sunbirds extract nectar from flowers, sustaining themselves on nature’s sweet offerings.
Spread throughout Sub-Saharan Africa, these delightful sunbirds bring joy to birdwatchers across the region.
8 – Bronze Sunbird
Quick Identification Guide of Bronze Sunbird
- Size: A small bird, female measuring approximately 4.7 inches; male with a long tail; 8.6 inches in length.
- Body Color: The body of the Bronze Sunbird is predominantly bronze or metallic green, depending on the lighting conditions.
- Head: The male Bronze Sunbird sports a vibrant, iridescent green head, while the female has a less pronounced green patch or a duller coloration.
- Wings and Tail: Both male and female Bronze Sunbirds have dark brown wings and a deeply forked tail.
- Bill: Slender and curved, allowing them to feed on nectar.
- Legs and Feet: Relatively short and sturdy, adapted for perching and clinging to flowers or branches.
The Bronze Sunbird (Nectarinia kilimensis) is a captivating little bird that originates from the tropical regions of Africa.
This delightful species can be found in a variety of habitats, including gardens, forests, and even urban areas with ample floral resources.
These sunbirds are a treat to observe as they flit gracefully between flowers.
The male Bronze Sunbird is particularly striking, with a lustrous green head shimmering under the sunlight, while the female showcases a more subdued green patch or duller coloring.
Their wings and tail are dark brown, and their bill is slender and curved, perfectly suited for sipping nectar from blooming blossoms.
Bronze Sunbirds are a welcome sight, adding a touch of vibrant beauty to their surroundings as they feed on nectar and help pollinate various flowering plants.
Distributed through Angola, Congo, Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique.
9 – Black Sunbird
Quick Identification Guide of Black Sunbird
- Size: Black Sunbirds are small birds, measuring approximately 3.9 to 4.7 inches (10-12 cm) in length.
- Body Color: The male Black Sunbird has a glossy black plumage, while the female sports a more subdued dark brown or grayish coloration.
- Head: Both male and female Black Sunbirds have a prominent metallic green patch on their head, extending from the forehead to the nape.
- Wings and Tail: Black, matching their overall body color.
- Bill: Slender and curved, allowing for precise nectar feeding.
- Legs and Feet: These sunbirds have short and sturdy legs, with feet adapted for perching and clinging to vegetation.
The Black Sunbird (Leptocoma aspasia), a fascinating avian species, can be found in various regions across South East Asia, predominantly in New Guinea.
These small birds possess a striking appearance that captivates birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike. It has 23 sub species throughout the distribution range.
The male Black Sunbird boasts a lustrous black plumage that shines in the sunlight, while the female exhibits a more understated dark brown or grayish hue.
Both genders share a distinctive feature—a vibrant metallic green patch on their heads, spanning from the forehead to the nape.
Their slender, curved bills are well-suited for precise nectar feeding.
With their short legs and sturdy feet, Black Sunbirds expertly navigate their habitats, which include forests, gardens, and other floral-rich environments.
These delightful birds play a vital role in pollination as they indulge in the nectar of blossoming flowers, bringing joy and vibrancy to their natural surroundings.
10 – Tacazze Sunbird
Quick Identification Guide of Tacazze Sunbird
- Size: Tacazze Sunbirds are medium-sized birds, measuring approximately 4.7 to 6 inches (12-15 cm) in length. Male with tail 8.6 inches (22cm).
- Body Color: The male Tacazze Sunbird has a striking metallic green or blue plumage on the head, throat, and upperparts, transitioning to a vibrant green color on the breast and belly. The female has a more subdued coloration, with a duller greenish-blue plumage on the upperparts and a pale yellow or buff underbelly.
- Wings and Tail: Both male and female Tacazze Sunbirds have dark brown wings and a deeply forked tail.
- Bill: Long, down curved and slender, perfectly adapted for probing flowers and extracting nectar.
- Legs and Feet: These sunbirds have sturdy legs and feet, suitable for perching and clinging to vegetation.
The Tacazze Sunbird (Nectarinia tacazze), an enchanting avian species, is native to the mountainous regions of eastern and central Africa.
These sunbirds command attention with their stunning plumage. The male Tacazze Sunbird showcases a mesmerizing display of colors, boasting a metallic green/ blue head, throat, and upperparts, transitioning into a vibrant green on the breast and belly.
In contrast, the female exhibits a more subtle appearance, with a greenish-blue plumage on the upperparts and a pale yellow or buff underbelly.
Both genders share distinctive dark brown wings and a deeply forked tail. Equipped with a long and slender bill, Tacazze Sunbirds expertly navigate their floral-rich habitats, probing flowers to extract nectar.
These charismatic birds bring an element of natural wonder to their mountainous homes, gracing the slopes with their vibrant presence and contributing to the pollination of a variety of flowering plants.
11 – Red-tufted Sunbird
Quick Identification Guide of Red-tufted Sunbird
- Size: Small bird, female measuring around 5.5 inches (14 cm) in length. Male with a long tail is about 10.6 inches (27 cm).
- Body color: Males have a vibrant iridescent green-black plumage, while females are predominantly olive-green.
- Unique distinguishable colors or patterns: Males display a striking red tuft on their green forehead, giving them their distinctive name.
- Bill: Long and slender, slightly curved downwards, black in color.
- Legs and feet: Thin and black.
The Red-tufted Sunbird (Nectarinia johnstoni) is a small bird with restricted distribution. The males are adorned with stunning iridescent green-black plumage and sport a prominent red tuft on their foreheads, from which they derive their name.
Females, on the other hand, showcase an attractive olive-green coloration.
While the male possesses a green head, the female lacks this feature.
These sunbirds are native to certain regions of central Africa and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, gardens, and shrublands.
They primarily feed on nectar from flowering plants and occasionally supplement their diet with insects.
The Red-tufted Sunbird is commonly found in the tropical and subtropical regions of Africa including Kenya, Tanzania, and Mozambique.
12 – Neergaard’s Sunbird
Quick Identification Guide of Neergaard’s Sunbird
- Size: Small bird, measuring around 3.8 to 4.3 inches (10-11 cm) in length.
- Body color: Males have a glossy black plumage with green head, while females exhibit a beautiful combination of olive-green and yellow.
- Unique distinguishable colors or patterns: Males feature a striking metallic blue-violet patch on their throat and upper breast. Both males and females possess a vibrant yellow belly and rump.
- Bill: Slender and slightly curved downwards, black in color.
- Legs and feet: Delicate and black.
Neergaard’s Sunbird (Cinnyris neergaardi) is a small bird, with limited distribution in South-eastern Africa in Mozambique and Eswatini.
The male is adorned with a remarkable metallic blue-violet patch on its throat and upper breast, adding a touch of brilliance to its appearance.
Both males and females exhibit a vibrant yellow belly and rump, creating a striking contrast against their darker body colors. While the male has a green head or patches, the female does not possess green coloring.
This sunbird is native to specific regions in Mozambique and Eswatini with a pocket population and can be found in various habitats, including forests, gardens, and bushy areas.
Its diet primarily consists of nectar from flowering plants, complemented by occasional insect consumption.
Neergaard’s Sunbird is a restricted range species and thus considered under the category near threatened as the conservation status.
13 – Mariqua Sunbird
Quick Identification Guide of Mariqua Sunbird
- Size: Small bird, measuring about 4.3 – 5.5 inches (11-14 cm) in length.
- Body color: The Mariqua Sunbird has a vibrant iridescent blue-green color on its upperparts and chest, with a contrasting yellow-orange underbelly.
- Unique colors or patterns: Males have a bright green patch on their heads and red breast band, while females have a duller greenish-brown color on their heads. Both sexes have long, thin bills for feeding on nectar.
- Bill: Long and slender, adapted for probing flowers and extracting nectar.
- Legs and feet: Thin and dark, typical for perching birds.
The Mariqua Sunbird (Cinnyris mariquensis), a delightful avian species, hails from the enchanting continent of Africa.
This small bird showcases a stunning combination of colors. Its upperparts and chest shimmer with iridescent blue-green hues, perfectly complemented by a vibrant yellow-orange underbelly.
The males of this species proudly display a distinctive green patch on their heads, while females exhibit a more modest greenish-brown coloration in the same region.
These enchanting sunbirds possess long, down curved slender bills, specially designed for sipping nectar from flowers. Their thin, dark legs and feet are ideal for effortless perching.
Found in a range of habitats including woodlands, gardens, and savannahs, the Mariqua Sunbird thrives on a diet primarily consisting of nectar, supplemented by insects.
This remarkable bird’s captivating presence and remarkable colors make it a true gem of the African avian landscape.
14 – Souimanga Sunbird
Quick Identification Guide of Souimanga Sunbird
- Size: A small bird, measuring around 4.3 – 5.5 inches (10-11 cm) in length.
- Body color: Exhibits a striking combination of colors, with males displaying a vibrant metallic green color on their upperparts and chest, while females have a more subdued olive-green hue.
- Unique colors or patterns: Males possess an iridescent red throat and breast, forming a distinct patch, whereas females have a paler, less pronounced version of this patch. Both sexes have long, slender bills perfectly adapted for sipping nectar.
- Bill: Long and slender, specifically designed for probing flowers and extracting nectar.
- Legs and feet: Thin and dark, suitable for perching on delicate branches.
The Souimanga Sunbird (Cinnyris sovimanga), a captivating creature, originates from the diverse landscapes of Madagascar and adjoining islands.
This small bird boasts a splendid array of colors. Males exhibit a resplendent metallic green coloration on their upperparts and chest, while females sport a more understated olive-green shade.
What sets the males apart is the vibrant iridescent red patch adorning their throat and breast, serving as a true spectacle for onlookers. Females possess a subtler version of this patch, adding a touch of elegance to their appearance.
With their long, slender bills designed for nectar extraction, these sunbirds skillfully navigate the floral landscapes. Their thin, dark legs and feet allow them to gracefully perch on delicate branches.
Found in a range of habitats including forests, gardens, and savannahs, the Souimanga Sunbird thrives on a diet primarily consisting of nectar, supplemented by small insects.
Embodying the charm and vibrancy of Madagascar avifauna, this captivating species enchants all who have the pleasure of encountering it.
15 – Anjouan Sunbird
Quick Identification Guide of Anjouan Sunbird
- Size: A small bird, measuring about 3.9 to 4 inches (10 cm) in length.
- Body color: The Anjouan Sunbird displays a remarkable combination of colors, with males showcasing a deep, glossy green-black color on their upperparts and chest, while females have a more subdued grayish-brown hue.
- Unique colors or patterns: Males boast a vibrant green head, adding a captivating contrast to their overall appearance. Females lack the green head and instead exhibit a pale throat and breast.
- Bill: Slender and slightly curved, ideal for sipping nectar from flowers.
- Legs and feet: Thin and dark, well-suited for perching.
Originating from the picturesque island of Anjouan, the Anjouan Sunbird (Cinnyris comorensis) enchants bird enthusiasts with its stunning presence.
This diminutive bird, measuring a mere 4 inches in length, exhibits a remarkable blend of colors.
Males flaunt a deep, glossy green-black coloration on their upperparts and chest, capturing the essence of elegance.
What truly sets them apart is their vibrant green heads, making a striking statement against the dark plumage. In contrast, females adopt a more subtle appearance, with a grayish-brown body and a pale throat and breast.
These sunbirds possess slender, slightly curved bills, perfectly suited for delicately sipping nectar from flowers. Their thin, dark legs and feet are designed for effortless perching.
Found exclusively on the enchanting island of Anjouan, these sunbirds thrive in diverse habitats, including forests, gardens, and plantations. They sustain themselves primarily on nectar, supplemented by small insects.
The Anjouan Sunbird, with its unique beauty and endemic range, remains a true treasure of this splendid island. Since the bird is endemic to this Island you must visit the island to this beauty.
16 – Malagasy Sunbird
Quick Identification Guide of Malagasy Sunbird
- Size: Malagasy Sunbirds are small birds, measuring approximately 4-5 inches in length.
- Body Color: The overall body color of the Malagasy Sunbird is iridescent black, with shades of green and purple shimmering in the head with the sunlight.
- Head: Both male and female Malagasy Sunbirds have glossy black heads, adorned with a vibrant metallic green patch on the crown.
- Wings and Tail: The wings and tail are also black, with a glossy sheen.
- Bill: The bill is long, thin, and curved downwards, perfectly adapted for sipping nectar.
- Legs and Feet: The legs and feet are dark gray or black.
The Malagasy Sunbird (Cinnyris notatus) is a captivating bird native to the island of Madagascar, located off the southeastern coast of Africa.
This delightful species can be found in a variety of habitats across the island, including forests, woodlands, and gardens.
The Malagasy Sunbird enchants observers with its iridescent black plumage, highlighted by mesmerizing shades of blue and purple.
Both male and female birds boast glossy black heads, crowned with a striking metallic green patch. These sunbirds possess long, slender bills ideally suited for extracting nectar from flowers.
Apart from nectar, they also feed on small insects and spiders, making them vital pollinators in their native ecosystem.
The Malagasy Sunbird’s range is confined to the unique biodiversity hotspot of Madagascar, making it a special avian treasure of this enchanting island.
17 – Paradise Tanager
Quick Identification Guide of Paradise Tanager
- Size: Paradise Tanagers are small birds, measuring about 5-5.5 inches in length.
- Body Color: The overall body color of Paradise Tanagers is a vibrant blue, with a contrasting black back and wings.
- Head: Males have a striking emerald green head, which extends down to the nape of the neck. Females, on the other hand, have a deep blue head with a small green patch behind the eye.
- Unique colors or patterns: Contrasting red rump
- Wings and Tail: The wings and tail of Paradise Tanagers are black, with the wings having a glossy sheen when in flight.
- Bill: The bill is short, stout, and black in color.
- Legs and Feet: The legs and feet are black as well.
The Paradise Tanager (Tangara chilensis) is a delightful bird native to the tropical forests of South America.
Found primarily in countries like Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru, this tanager is a joy to behold with its brilliant blue body and contrasting black wings.
The males flaunt a mesmerizing emerald green head that extends down to the nape of their necks, while females boast a deep blue head with a small green patch behind the eye.
These small birds can be found in the lush canopies of lowland rainforests and cloud forests.
With their specialized bill adapted for eating fruits and insects, Paradise Tanagers indulge in a varied diet that includes berries, nectar, and small arthropods.
Their range spans across different habitats within their native countries, making them a delightful sight for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts fortunate enough to spot them.
Summary of Information about black birds with green heads in general!
The following table summarizes the region and the measurements to see the above-listed black birds with green heads where most of them were sunbird species. And, for actual sightings and range data of all the listed birds, you can refer to valuable resources such as eBird, birds of the world, and All About Birds for USA species.
In addition, you can refer to this table to get information on these birds such as food preferences as well.
| Black birds with green heads | Region | Length | Food |
| Stephanie’s Astrapia | Central and Eastern New Guinea | Male 14.5 inches with tal 33 inches (37 cm; 84 cm with central rectrices included) | insects and other invertebrates, grain, and fruits |
| Common grackle | North America | 11.0-13.4 inches | Insects, small spiders, pollen, small fruits, and nectar |
| Velvet Asity | Madagascar | 5.5-6.3 inches | nectar, insects, and small fruits |
| Splendid Astrapia | West New Guinea | 15.3 inches | Fruits and arthropods, frogs, lizards |
| Green-throated Sunbird | Central Africa in Nigeria, Cameroon, Congo | 4.7-5.1 inches | Nectar, insects, and spiders |
| Scarlet-chested Sunbird | Senegal, Nigeria, Cameroon, Sudan, Congo region, Uganda | 5.1-5.9 inches | Nectar, Pollen, insects, and spiders |
| Amethyst Sunbird | Central African and South Africa countries | 4-5.9 inches | Nectar, Pollen, insects, and spiders |
| Bronze Sunbird | Central Eastern Africa | 4.7-8.6 inches | Nectar and arthropods |
| Black Sunbird | Kenya, Tanzania, and Mozambique | 3.9 – 4.7 inches | Termites, spiders, and nectar |
| Tacazze Sunbird | Ethiopia, Kenya | 4.7 – 6 inches | Nectar, Insects, spiders, mites |
| Red-tufted Sunbird | Kenya, Tanzania and Mozambique | 5.5 inches (without tail) | Arthropods, fruit, and nectar |
| Neergaard’s Sunbird | Mozambique and Eswatini | 3.8 – 4.3 inches | Nectar, small insects, and spiders |
| Mariqua Sunbird | East Africa and South African countries | 4.3 – 5.5 inches | Nectar, small insects, and spiders |
| Souimanga Sunbird | Madagascar | 4.3 – 5.5 inches | Nectar, small arthropods, and nematodes |
| Anjouan Sunbird | island of Anjouan in Comoros Islands | 3.9 inches | Nectar, and small arthropods, and nematodes |
| Malagasy Sunbird | Madagascar and adjacent islands | Approximately 4-5 inches | Probably nectar and small arthropods |
| Paradise Tanager | Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru | 5-5.5 inches | fruit and arthropods |
Now, it’s time to explore!
I am sure you have added at least a few of the listed 17 black birds with green heads to your list and hopefully the guide provided in this article will help you to ID them in your next birding adventure.
Let us know how many listed black birds with green heads you have already seen before.
And, If you had rare sightings of any other black bird with a green head in your birding adventures, please share details with other birders in the comment section.
Happy birding!
You may also like:
