Rufous-booted Racket-tail
NameRufous-booted Racket-tail
Common NameRufous-booted Racket-tail
Scientific NameOcreatus rufocauda
FamilyTrochilidae
Wingspan (cm)11
Length (cm)9.5
Weight (g)3
Plumage DetailsMales are iridescent green overall, with a glittering green throat and breast. They possess striking rufous (reddish-brown) leg tufts, resembling 'boots'. The most distinctive feature is the long, wire-like outer tail feathers that terminate in large, paddle-shaped black 'rackets'. Females are similar but lack the elongated racket-tail feathers and have white underparts with green spotting on the flanks.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations typically consist of soft, high-pitched chips or trills, often described as 'tsip' or 'tseet' notes.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Andes of northern Peru, inhabiting subtropical or tropical moist montane forests and cloud forest edges at elevations typically between 1,000 and 2,200 meters.
Identifying FeaturesLong, wire-like outer tail feathers ending in black rackets (males), Prominent rufous leg tufts, Iridescent green plumage, Small size
Description
This small, iridescent green hummingbird is known for its distinctive long outer tail feathers, which end in large black rackets, and prominent rufous-colored leg tufts. It primarily feeds on nectar from flowers, hovering gracefully, and also catches small insects in flight.
