The Cape Sugarbird occurs only in the Western and Eastern Cape provinces of South Africa. They are distinctive birds with long, curved bills and very long tails. They are almost entirely dependent on the various species of proteas that occur in areas of fynbos and feed primarily on nectar but will also take insects such as beetles, bees and flies. Sugarbirds are the most important pollinators of proteas, visiting up to 300 flowers in a single day and they will aggressively chase away competing species, particularly Orange Breasted Sunbirds. Outside of the breeding season they occur in large flocks but once the breeding season begins, they become highly territorial. The nest is built by the female alone and consists of a cup of dead heather, dry grass, bracken and brown fluff from protea flowers.

The King Protea (Protea Cynaroides) is the national flower of South Africa. With its pink and silvery sheen and enormous size (up to 30cm in diameter) it really is spectacular. The plants thrive in a tough environment; cold, wet, windy winters and hot dry summers, rocky, nutrient poor soils and frequent fires. It seems incredible that given the harsh conditions, the plants still have the energy to produce something so beautiful.

Signed Limited Edition Print on 300 GSM Fine Art Cotton Paper from an original watercolour painting. This print is delivered rolled into a tube, ready for framing. Free worldwide shipping.

Limited Edition of 25 Fine Art Prints.

Size: 420mm x 300mm