Merida Sunangel
NameMerida Sunangel
Common NameMerida Sunangel
Scientific NameHeliangelus spencei
FamilyTrochilidae
Wingspan (cm)11
Length (cm)10.5
Weight (g)5
Plumage DetailsMales have iridescent green upperparts, a dark crown and face, and a prominent white post-ocular spot. The throat (gorget) is a glittering violet-blue, bordered by a narrow white line, with a dark chest and green flanks. Females are similar but lack the iridescent gorget or have a duller, reduced one, often with a whitish throat streaked with dusky. The tail is dark.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include high-pitched, sharp 'tsip' or 'tseet' notes, often given in a rapid series, characteristic of many small hummingbirds.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Andes of western Venezuela, primarily in Mérida state.
Identifying FeaturesIridescent green upperparts, Dark head with white post-ocular spot, Straight black bill, Glittering violet-blue gorget (males), Small size, Found in high-altitude Andean forests
Description
This small hummingbird is characterized by its iridescent green upperparts, dark head, and a distinctive white spot behind the eye. It is typically found in the high-altitude cloud forests of the Venezuelan Andes, where it feeds primarily on nectar while often perching upright.
