Black-bellied Thorntail
NameBlack-bellied Thorntail
Common NameBlack-bellied Thorntail
Scientific NameDiscosura langsdorffi
FamilyTrochilidae
Wingspan (cm)9
Length (cm)7.5
Weight (g)2.8
Plumage DetailsMales have iridescent green upperparts, a dark crown, a white post-ocular spot, and a black belly with prominent white flank patches. The tail is short and forked, often with white tips on the outer rectrices. Females are similar but with a less intensely black belly, often more dusky, and a shorter, less forked tail.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include high-pitched, thin 'tsip' notes and soft, rapid trills, often given while foraging or hovering.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in tropical and subtropical moist lowland forests across parts of South America, including Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and Brazil.
Identifying Featurestiny size, iridescent green upperparts, dark belly, white flank patches, short, straight bill, short, slightly forked tail
Description
The Black-bellied Thorntail is a tiny hummingbird characterized by its iridescent green upperparts and dark underparts. It typically inhabits humid lowland forests, feeding on nectar and small insects.
