Purple birds that look like straight out of the fantasy world

Nov23,2025

A tiny, electric-purple nectar lover found in the tropical forests of South America. Males shine with a deep violet glow against their bright yellow legs.

Purple Honeycreeper (Cyanerpes caeruleus)

Also called the plum starling, the male’s plumage glistens like polished amethyst. Native to sub-Saharan Africa.

Violet-Backed Starling (Cinnyricinclus leucogaster)

Known for its jewel-toned feathers blending purples, blues, and greens. Found in the wetlands of the Americas.

Purple Gallinule (Porphyrio martinicus)

North America’s largest swallow. Its iridescent deep-purple sheen makes it one of the continent’s most admired aerial acrobats.

Purple Martin (Progne subis)

One of the largest hummingbirds, native to Central America, wearing a metallic violet cloak that glitters in sunlight.

Violet Sabrewing (Campylopterus hemileucurus)

Common in India, this small bird displays a glowing purple-blue breeding plumage that shifts shades with every movement.

Purple Sunbird (Cinnyris asiaticus)

A stunning hummingbird from Central and South America with a velvety violet crown and shimmering purple-green body.

Violet-Crowned Woodnymph (Thalurania colombica)

A regal African species with a luxurious purple crest and plumage, paired with brilliant green and crimson accents.

Purple-Crested Turaco (Gallirex porphyreolophus)