Giant Hummingbird
NameGiant Hummingbird
Common NameGiant Hummingbird
Scientific NamePatagona gigas
FamilyTrochilidae
Wingspan (cm)21.5
Length (cm)22
Weight (g)21
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are dull brownish-grey, contrasting with rufous (rusty) underparts and a distinctive white rump patch. The tail is dark with white outer feathers, and its long, straight bill is black.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations consist of a series of short, sharp 'tsip' or 'chip' notes, often given while foraging or in flight.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsmountain, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the Andes Mountains of South America, from southwestern Colombia south through Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and Chile, extending into western Argentina.
Identifying FeaturesLargest hummingbird species, Relatively slow wingbeats, Long, straight bill, Dull brownish-grey upperparts with rufous underparts, White rump patch
Description
The Giant Hummingbird is the largest hummingbird species, notable for its substantial size and relatively slow wingbeats. It primarily feeds on nectar, hovering expertly at flowers with its long bill, and is found in the high-altitude Andes.
