Rainbow-bearded Thornbill
NameRainbow-bearded Thornbill
Common NameRainbow-bearded Thornbill
Scientific NameChalcostigma herrani
FamilyTrochilidae
Wingspan (cm)11
Length (cm)10.5
Weight (g)4.5
Plumage DetailsMales have a blackish head with a prominent buffy-white stripe extending from the bill to the crown. The throat features a spectacular iridescent beard, emerald green at the top, transitioning to golden-orange, and fiery red at the bottom. The body is olive-grey, and the dark, forked tail has white outer tail feathers. Females are similar but with a less developed or absent beard.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations are typically soft, high-pitched chips or trills, often given while foraging or perched.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the Andes mountains of southern Colombia, Ecuador, and northern Peru.
Identifying FeaturesIridescent rainbow-colored beard (green, orange, red), Blackish head with a pale crown stripe, Olive-grey body plumage, Forked tail with white outer feathers
Description
This small hummingbird is easily recognized by its striking iridescent 'beard' of green, orange, and red. It typically inhabits high-altitude Andean forests and shrublands, feeding on nectar and small insects.
