Ecuadorian Hillstar
Oreotrochilus chimborazo
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<birdfyi-bird slug="oreotrochilus-chimborazo"></birdfyi-bird>About
A medium-sized hummingbird (12-13 cm) endemic to the highlands of Ecuador at 3,500-5,200 m, notably on Chimborazo volcano. Males have a violet-blue hood and white breast. One of the world's highest-living birds, adapted to extreme altitude with enhanced oxygen-carrying capacity.
Physical Description
| Measurement | Value | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Wingspan | 14.8 cm | 5.8 in |
| Weight | 8.383333333333333 g | 0.30 oz |
Identification
Plumage
Slender-tailed Woodstar: males with iridescent purple-violet gorget; metallic green body; white pectoral tufts; females green above
Habitat & Range
Geographic Range
Endemic to Chimborazo and neighboring volcanoes in Ecuador in high páramo at 3,500–5,200 m. Nationally iconic.
Diet & Feeding
Nectarivore of Ecuadorian highland páramo; visits Chuquiraga jussieui and Puya. Takes small insects on cold mornings.
Conservation Status
Behavior & Breeding
Clutch Size
2
Sound
Song
Harsh, grating screech with urgent tone; sudden loud rough call given sharply during aerial chase sequences.
Taxonomy
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Caprimulgiformes (Nightjars & Swifts) |
| Family | Trochilidae (Hummingbirds) |
| Genus | Oreotrochilus |
| Species | Oreotrochilus chimborazo |
Distribution
Ecuadorian Hillstar has been recorded in 3 countries.
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External Databases
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Ecuadorian Hillstar eat?
Where does the Ecuadorian Hillstar live?
Is the Ecuadorian Hillstar endangered?
What does the Ecuadorian Hillstar sound like?
How big is the Ecuadorian Hillstar?
What order and family does the Ecuadorian Hillstar belong to?
Similar Birds
Other species in the Trochilidae family