Shining Sunbeam
Aglaeactis cupripennis
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<birdfyi-bird slug="aglaeactis-cupripennis"></birdfyi-bird>The Shining Sunbeam (Aglaeactis cupripennis) is a bird species in the family Trochilidae (hummingbirds), within the order Caprimulgiformes (nightjars & swifts). Recorded measurements include a wingspan of 16.3 cm and a weight of 7.5 g. The IUCN Red List classifies it as Least Concern.
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About
A medium-sized hummingbird (12-13 cm) found in Andean cloud forests from Colombia to Bolivia at 2,500-3,800 m. Coppery-bronze plumage that shines with iridescent sunbeam-like reflections. Nectarivore of montane forest edges and páramo shrubs.
Physical Description
| Measurement | Value | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Wingspan | 16.3 cm | 6.4 in |
| Weight | 7.540000000000001 g | 0.27 oz |
Habitat & Range
Geographic Range
Widespread in Andean cloud forests and shrubby páramo from Colombia south through Ecuador and Peru to Bolivia. 2,000–4,300 m.
Diet & Feeding
Nectarivore of high Andean páramo and puna; visits Chuquiraga, Puya, and Ericaceae flowers. Catches small insects near blooms.
Conservation Status
Behavior & Breeding
Nesting
Nest type: CP. Incubation: 16-18 days. Fledging: 24-27 days.
Clutch Size
2
Sound
Song
Soft, sibilant twittering with silvery quality; high, airy notes cascading gently near high-altitude Polylepis flowers.
Taxonomy
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Caprimulgiformes (Nightjars & Swifts) |
| Family | Trochilidae (Hummingbirds) |
| Genus | Aglaeactis |
| Species | Aglaeactis cupripennis |
Distribution
Shining Sunbeam has been recorded in 3 countries.
countries highlighted
External Databases
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Shining Sunbeam eat?
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Is the Shining Sunbeam endangered?
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What does the Shining Sunbeam sound like?
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Similar Birds
Other species in the Trochilidae family