Tyrian Metaltail
Metallura tyrianthina
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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 |
Identification
Plumage
Stripe-breasted Starthroat: tiny; males with violet gorget; metallic green above; white underparts; females green above; spotted below
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.
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External Databases
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Tyrian Metaltail eat?
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Is the Tyrian Metaltail endangered?
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What does the Tyrian Metaltail sound like?
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Similar Birds
Other species in the Trochilidae family