Glowing Puffleg
NameGlowing Puffleg
Common NameGlowing Puffleg
Scientific NameEriocnemis vestita
FamilyTrochilidae
Wingspan (cm)16
Length (cm)11.5
Weight (g)5
Plumage DetailsMales display a glittering emerald green body, a coppery-red throat patch, and a dark, deeply forked tail. Both sexes possess the prominent, dense white leg puffs, which are a key identifying feature. Females are similar but may have less extensive or absent coppery throat iridescence.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include soft, high-pitched 'tsip' or 'chip' notes, often repeated, and sometimes a rapid, chattering trill, especially during interactions or territorial displays.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThis species is found in the high-altitude Andes mountains, ranging from western Venezuela through Colombia and Ecuador, south into northern Peru.
Identifying Featuresiridescent emerald green plumage, prominent white leg puffs, coppery-red throat patch (male), long, deeply forked dark tail
Description
The Glowing Puffleg is a medium-sized hummingbird characterized by its iridescent emerald green plumage and distinctive fluffy white leg puffs. It is typically observed hovering gracefully while feeding on nectar from flowers in high-altitude Andean cloud forests and shrubby areas.
