Bearded Mountaineer
NameBearded Mountaineer
Common NameBearded Mountaineer
Scientific NameOreonympha nobilis
FamilyTrochilidae
Wingspan (cm)13
Length (cm)14
Weight (g)8
Plumage DetailsMales have an iridescent blue-purple crown, iridescent green forehead, black face mask, and a prominent iridescent purple gorget (beard) extending from the chin. A white post-ocular stripe and white breast/belly contrast with a brownish-green back and wings. The tail is long, deeply forked, and primarily white with dark outer rectrices.
Vocalization / CallGenerally quiet, but may produce soft, high-pitched chips or trills, especially during territorial displays or interactions.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsmountain, desert
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the high Andes of central and southern Peru, typically found at elevations between 2,400 and 3,900 meters.
Identifying Featureslong, deeply forked white tail, iridescent blue-purple crown, iridescent green forehead, black face mask with white collar, prominent iridescent purple gorget (beard)
Description
A striking, large hummingbird endemic to the high Andes of Peru. Males are characterized by their iridescent blue-purple crown, black face, white collar, and a prominent iridescent purple gorget, complemented by a long, deeply forked white tail. They are typically found in arid montane scrub and forest edges.
