nectarivorous

Nectarivorous is a term used to describe animals whose diet is dominated by nectar, the sugar-rich liquid produced by flowers. Nectarivory occurs across several animal groups, most commonly birds and bats, and to a lesser extent some insects. For many species, nectar provides a high-energy sugar source, but protein is often obtained from pollen or incidental insect prey. Nectarivory often forms a key plant–pollinator mutualism.

Adaptive features include specialized feeding structures. Birds such as hummingbirds, sunbirds, and honeyeaters have long, slender bills and highly extensible tongues; many hover or forage with rapid wingbeats to reach nectar deep within flowers. Nectar-feeding bats typically possess elongated snouts and tongues with brush-like papillae to lap nectar. Some insects have long proboscises or mouthparts adapted to accessing nectar from tubular flowers.

Ecological role: Nectarivores are important pollinators; as they feed, they move pollen between flowers, promoting plant reproduction. Flower traits—color, scent, and nectar production—often evolve in response to their primary nectarivores. Interactions can be specialized or generalized; nectar availability can influence foraging patterns and seasonal dynamics. Nectar robbing, where nectar is accessed without pollination, is a noted exception in some systems.

Taxonomic notes and examples: In birds, hummingbirds of the Americas, and honeyeaters and sunbirds in other regions are prominent nectar feeders. In mammals, various nectar-feeding bats occur across multiple families. Insects such as bees, butterflies, and moths also feed on nectar and act as pollinators. Nectarivory is widespread in flowering plant communities where nectar is produced.