This small bird is commonly found in wooded areas in Palawan and nearby islands, ranging from lowlands to mountainous regions. It has an elongated and curved beak, with olive wings and a whitish belly. The male is easily recognizable due to its pointed green tail, bright red back, sides, and head, purple crown and moustache stripe, and yellow chest with fine red streaks. The female, on the other hand, is simpler in appearance and closely resembles other female sunbirds, but is distinguishable for its small size, pale underparts, and olive wings. Its vocalization is a repeated up-and-down “chip-chap! chip-chap! chip-chap!”
