Purple-throated Mountain-gem
NamePurple-throated Mountain-gem
Common NamePurple-throated Mountain-gem
Scientific NameLampornis calolaemus
FamilyTrochilidae
Wingspan (cm)12
Length (cm)10.75
Weight (g)5.5
Plumage DetailsMales have iridescent green upperparts, a brilliant purple gorget (throat patch), and a prominent white post-ocular stripe. The underparts are grayish-green, and the tail is dark. Females lack the purple throat, having a rufous throat and breast instead.
Vocalization / CallIts calls are typically high-pitched, sharp 'chip' notes or a rapid series of 'tseet' or 'tsip' sounds, often given while foraging or perched.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the highlands of Costa Rica and western Panama.
Identifying Featuresiridescent green plumage, white post-ocular stripe, purple throat (males), rufous throat (females), long, straight black bill
Description
This medium-sized hummingbird is characterized by its iridescent green plumage and a distinctive white stripe behind the eye. Males display a brilliant purple throat patch, while females have a rufous throat. It typically hovers at flowers to feed on nectar in montane forests.
