Fire-throated Metaltail
NameFire-throated Metaltail
Common NameFire-throated Metaltail
Scientific NameMetallura eupogon
FamilyTrochilidae
Wingspan (cm)12
Length (cm)11.5
Weight (g)5
Plumage DetailsMales display a brilliant iridescent orange-red gorget (throat patch), a bronzy-green body, darker wings, and a dark, slightly forked tail. Females are similar in body coloration but lack the iridescent gorget, instead having a whitish throat with green spotting.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations typically consist of high-pitched chips, trills, or squeaky notes, often given while foraging or perched.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsmountain, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Andes of southern Peru and western Bolivia, typically found at elevations between 2,700 and 4,200 meters.
Identifying Featuresiridescent orange-red throat (males), dark, slightly forked tail, small size, high-altitude Andean habitat
Description
This small hummingbird inhabits high-altitude Andean scrub and forest edges. Males are notable for their brilliant iridescent orange-red throat patch, which contrasts with their bronzy-green body. They are often seen hovering to feed on nectar or perched on exposed branches.
