Empress Brilliant
NameEmpress Brilliant
Common NameEmpress Brilliant
Scientific NameHeliodoxa imperatrix
FamilyTrochilidae
Wingspan (cm)14
Length (cm)16
Weight (g)9
Plumage DetailsPredominantly brilliant iridescent emerald green on the head, back, and underparts. The wings are dusky, and the long, deeply forked tail is blackish-bronze. A small white spot is present behind the eye.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include high-pitched, sharp 'tsip' or 'tseet' notes, often given while foraging or in flight.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the western Andes of Colombia and northwestern Ecuador, typically found at elevations between 1,000 and 2,000 meters.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size for a hummingbird, Overall brilliant iridescent emerald green plumage, Long, deeply forked, blackish-bronze tail, Straight, black bill, Small white post-ocular spot
Description
The Empress Brilliant is a large, striking hummingbird known for its brilliant iridescent emerald green plumage. It features a long, deeply forked black tail and a straight black bill, often seen hovering gracefully while feeding on nectar in montane forests.
