Crimson Topaz
NameCrimson Topaz
Common NameCrimson Topaz
Scientific NameTopaza pella
FamilyTrochilidae
Wingspan (cm)16.5
Length (cm)22
Weight (g)12
Plumage DetailsMales exhibit a black head, brilliant iridescent crimson throat, iridescent green upperparts, and a coppery-red belly. The rump is chestnut, and the purplish-black tail features two exceptionally long, crossed outer streamers. Females are similar but duller, lacking the crimson throat and having a shorter tail.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations consist of sharp, high-pitched "tsip" or "chip" notes, often delivered while foraging or perched.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in northern South America, including parts of Venezuela, the Guianas (Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana), and northern Brazil.
Identifying Featureslarge size, brilliant iridescent plumage, black head, crimson throat (males), long decurved black bill, two long, crossed outer tail feathers (males)
Description
A large, spectacularly iridescent hummingbird found in humid lowland forests of northern South America. Males are particularly striking with a black head, crimson throat, iridescent green body, and two long, crossed outer tail feathers. They primarily feed on nectar but also consume small insects.
