Little Woodstar
NameLittle Woodstar
Common NameLittle Woodstar
Scientific NameChaetocercus bombus
FamilyTrochilidae
Wingspan (cm)9.5
Length (cm)6.5
Weight (g)2.5
Plumage DetailsMales have iridescent green upperparts, a blackish mask with a white post-ocular streak, an iridescent purple gorget (which can appear rufous or dark depending on light), a white breast band, and rufous belly and flanks. Females have green upperparts, a white post-ocular streak, and buffy underparts with rufous flanks.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations are typically soft, high-pitched chips or squeaks, often emitted during foraging or in flight.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Andes mountains, found in southern Colombia, Ecuador, and northern Peru, typically inhabiting subtropical or tropical moist montane forests and cloud forest edges.
Identifying FeaturesTiny size (one of the smallest hummingbirds), Short, straight black bill, Male's iridescent purple gorget (appears rufous/dark in image), Male's white breast band and rufous belly, Rapid, erratic flight pattern
Description
The Little Woodstar is a tiny hummingbird known for its rapid, erratic flight. Males display iridescent green upperparts, a distinctive gorget, and rufous underparts, while females are generally duller with buffy underparts.
