Tyrian Metaltail
Metallura tyrianthina
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<birdfyi-bird slug="metallura-tyrianthina"></birdfyi-bird>The Tyrian Metaltail (Metallura tyrianthina) is a bird species in the family Trochilidae (hummingbirds), within the order Caprimulgiformes (nightjars & swifts). Recorded measurements include a wingspan of 10.8 cm and a weight of 3.7 g. The IUCN Red List classifies it as Least Concern.
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About
A small hummingbird (9-10 cm) widely distributed in Andean cloud forests from Venezuela to Bolivia at 1,500-3,500 m. Males have a glittering violet-purple rump and tail. Nectarivore of montane forest. One of the most common and widespread Andean hummingbird species.
Physical Description
| Measurement | Value | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Wingspan | 10.8 cm | 4.3 in |
| Weight | 3.72 g | 0.13 oz |
Habitat & Range
Geographic Range
Widespread in Andean cloud forests and shrubby páramo from Venezuela south through Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia. 1,800–4,200 m.
Diet & Feeding
Nectarivore of high Andean montane shrublands; specializes in Ericaceae and Brachyotum flowers. Catches small insects near blooms.
Conservation Status
Behavior & Breeding
Nesting
Nest type: PN.
Clutch Size
2
Sound
Song
Rough, raspy chatter with coarse texture; series of harsh notes with buzzy edges delivered emphatically from perch.
Taxonomy
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Caprimulgiformes (Nightjars & Swifts) |
| Family | Trochilidae (Hummingbirds) |
| Genus | Metallura |
| Species | Metallura tyrianthina |
Distribution
Tyrian Metaltail has been recorded in 4 countries.
countries highlighted
External Databases
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Tyrian Metaltail eat?
Where does the Tyrian Metaltail live?
Is the Tyrian Metaltail endangered?
How does the Tyrian Metaltail nest?
What does the Tyrian Metaltail sound like?
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What order and family does the Tyrian Metaltail belong to?
Similar Birds
Other species in the Trochilidae family