Greenish Puffleg
NameGreenish Puffleg
Common NameGreenish Puffleg
Scientific NameEriocnemis vestita
FamilyTrochilidae
Wingspan (cm)12
Length (cm)10
Weight (g)5
Plumage DetailsMales have iridescent green upperparts and breast, a glittering emerald green throat, and a white belly. The most striking feature is the dense, fluffy white feather tufts on its legs, resembling 'puffs'. The tail is dark, slightly forked. Females are similar but may have less extensive iridescent throat patching.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of high-pitched, thin 'tseet' or 'tsip' notes, often given while hovering or perched. They also produce soft chattering sounds.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the Andes mountains of Colombia, Ecuador, and northern Peru, typically at elevations between 2,000 and 3,000 meters.
Identifying Featuresprominent white leg puffs, iridescent green plumage, glittering emerald green throat (males), dark, slightly forked tail, straight, black bill
Description
The Greenish Puffleg is a medium-sized hummingbird known for its iridescent green plumage and distinctive white leg puffs. It typically forages for nectar from various flowers and catches small insects in flight, often found hovering at feeders or flowers in its high-altitude habitat.
