Purple-backed Thornbill
NamePurple-backed Thornbill
Common NamePurple-backed Thornbill
Scientific NameRamphomicron microrhynchum
FamilyTrochilidae
Wingspan (cm)11
Length (cm)8.5
Weight (g)3.5
Plumage DetailsMales display an iridescent purple back and rump, with a glittering emerald green throat and chest, contrasting with a white belly. The wings are dark, and the bill is very short, straight, and black. Females have green upperparts and white underparts with green spotting.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations typically consist of soft, high-pitched chips or thin, reedy trills, often given while foraging or in flight.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the high Andes mountains, ranging from Colombia through Ecuador and Peru, into Bolivia.
Identifying FeaturesIridescent purple back (male), Iridescent green throat and chest (male), Very short, straight black bill, Small size (approx. 8.5 cm), Forked tail
Description
This small hummingbird is characterized by its brilliant iridescent purple back and green throat. It is typically found in high-altitude Andean forests, where it feeds primarily on nectar while hovering at flowers.
