Black-backed Thornbill
NameBlack-backed Thornbill
Common NameBlack-backed Thornbill
Scientific NameRamphomicron dorsale
FamilyTrochilidae
Wingspan (cm)10
Length (cm)8.5
Weight (g)4
Plumage DetailsMales are predominantly dark iridescent green to black, with a prominent, shimmering green gorget. The bill is very short and straight. Females have dark green upperparts and whitish underparts with green spotting on the flanks, lacking the male's gorget.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include high-pitched, thin 'tsip' or 'tseet' notes, often given singly or in short series, typical of many small hummingbirds.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range in northern Colombia.
Identifying FeaturesVery short, straight bill, Male has iridescent green gorget, Dark body plumage, Small size (8-9 cm), Restricted to Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta
Description
This small hummingbird is characterized by its very short, straight bill. Males display a striking iridescent green gorget against a dark, almost black body, while females are duller. It inhabits high-altitude montane forests in its restricted range.
