Rusty Flowerpiercer
NameRusty Flowerpiercer
Common NameRusty Flowerpiercer
Scientific NameDiglossa sittoides
FamilyThraupidae
Wingspan (cm)16
Length (cm)10.5
Weight (g)10
Plumage DetailsMales have a slate-blue head and upperparts, a distinct black mask through the eye, and vibrant rusty-cinnamon underparts. The bill is slender, black, and notably upturned with a hooked tip. Females are similar but often appear duller in coloration.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a high-pitched, sibilant 'tsee-tsee-tsee' song and various sharp chip calls, often delivered from within dense foliage.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the Andes mountains of South America, its range extends from northern Venezuela, through Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru, south to Bolivia.
Identifying Featuresupturned hooked bill, slate-blue head and back, rusty-cinnamon underparts, black eye mask, small size
Description
A small, active tanager characterized by its blue-gray head and upperparts contrasting with rich rusty-cinnamon underparts. It is known for its specialized upturned, hooked bill, which it uses to pierce flower bases to access nectar.
