Wire-crested Thorntail
Discosura popelairii
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<birdfyi-bird slug="discosura-popelairii"></birdfyi-bird>The Wire-crested Thorntail (Discosura popelairii) is a bird species in the family Trochilidae (hummingbirds), within the order Caprimulgiformes (nightjars & swifts). Recorded measurements include a wingspan of 6.6 cm and a weight of 2.5 g. The IUCN Red List classifies it as Least Concern.
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About
A tiny hummingbird (7-8 cm plus extended tail wires in males, total 12-13 cm). Males have a spectacular erect green crest and long, wire-like outer tail feathers. Found in Andean foothill forests from Colombia to Peru. Nectarivore. One of the most ornate hummingbirds.
Physical Description
| Measurement | Value | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Wingspan | 6.6 cm | 2.6 in |
| Weight | 2.5 g | 0.09 oz |
Habitat & Range
Geographic Range
Found on the eastern Andean slope in Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and far western Brazil. 200–1,400 m elevation.
Diet & Feeding
Nectarivore of lowland tropical forest; forages high in canopy at flowering bromeliads and epiphytes. Supplements with insects.
Conservation Status
Sound
Song
Rapid, light twittering with crystalline quality; bright airy notes cascading freely in animated display above canopy.
Taxonomy
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Caprimulgiformes (Nightjars & Swifts) |
| Family | Trochilidae (Hummingbirds) |
| Genus | Discosura |
| Species | Discosura popelairii |
Distribution
Wire-crested Thorntail has been recorded in 3 countries.
countries highlighted
External Databases
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Wire-crested Thorntail eat?
Where does the Wire-crested Thorntail live?
Is the Wire-crested Thorntail endangered?
What does the Wire-crested Thorntail sound like?
How big is the Wire-crested Thorntail?
What order and family does the Wire-crested Thorntail belong to?
Similar Birds
Other species in the Trochilidae family