Rufous-throated Sapphire
NameRufous-throated Sapphire
Common NameRufous-throated Sapphire
Scientific NameHylocharis sapphirina
FamilyTrochilidae
Wingspan (cm)11
Length (cm)8.5
Weight (g)3.5
Plumage DetailsMales have an iridescent purple throat, iridescent green breast and belly, and a dark crown. The back is bronze-green, and the undertail coverts and base of the tail feathers are rufous. The bill is straight, bright red or orange with a black tip.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include high-pitched chips, trills, and a series of sharp, rapid notes, typical of many small hummingbirds.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in northern South America, including parts of Colombia, Venezuela, the Guianas, Brazil, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia, primarily in humid lowland forests.
Identifying FeaturesIridescent purple throat, Iridescent green breast and belly, Rufous undertail coverts and base of tail, Straight, bicolored bill (red/orange with black tip), Dark crown
Description
This small, iridescent hummingbird is characterized by its vibrant plumage and straight, bicolored bill. It is typically found foraging for nectar and small insects in the understory and mid-story of humid forest environments.
