Ecuadorian Hillstar
NameEcuadorian Hillstar
Common NameEcuadorian Hillstar
Scientific NameOreotrochilus chimborazo
FamilyTrochilidae
Wingspan (cm)15.5
Length (cm)12.5
Weight (g)8
Plumage DetailsMales have a brilliant iridescent violet-blue crown and throat, bordered by a black band on the face and a black stripe down the center of the white breast. The upperparts are dull grayish-brown, and the flanks are gray. The tail is dark with white outer rectrices. Females are duller, lacking the iridescent throat, and have a speckled throat.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations typically consist of sharp, high-pitched chips or chirps, often given in flight or while perched.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsmountain, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the high Andes of Ecuador, primarily found in the páramo regions of the central and northern parts of the country.
Identifying Featuresiridescent violet-blue crown and throat (male), black facial mask, white breast with black central stripe (male), greyish-brown upperparts, long, slightly decurved black bill
Description
This medium-sized hummingbird is characterized by its brilliant iridescent violet-blue head and throat, contrasting with a black face and a clean white breast. It inhabits high-altitude páramo environments in the Andes, where it feeds on nectar from specialized flowers.
