Marvelous Spatuletail
NameMarvelous Spatuletail
Common NameMarvelous Spatuletail
Scientific NameLoddigesia mirabilis
FamilyTrochilidae
Wingspan (cm)11.5
Length (cm)15.5
Weight (g)2.9
Plumage DetailsMale plumage features an iridescent violet-blue crest and an iridescent green gorget. The back is green, and underparts are white with a black central line. The most distinctive feature is the tail, with two extremely long outer feathers ending in large, iridescent violet-blue spatules. Females lack the crest and gorget and have a much shorter, less elaborate tail.
Vocalization / CallHigh-pitched, squeaky, and chattering calls, often described as 'tsip' or 'tseet' notes, typical of many hummingbirds.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeEndemic to a small area in the Río Utcubamba valley and its tributaries in the Amazonas region of northern Peru.
Identifying FeaturesExtremely long outer tail feathers with violet-blue spatules (males), Iridescent violet-blue crest (males), Iridescent green gorget (males), Small size, Long, slender bill
Description
A small, striking hummingbird, males are renowned for their two extremely long outer tail feathers, each ending in a large violet-blue disc-shaped "spatule." They exhibit iridescent purple and green plumage on the head and throat, and are typically found in montane forest edges. This species is known for its agile flight and unique tail display.
