Sapphire-vented Puffleg
NameSapphire-vented Puffleg
Common NameSapphire-vented Puffleg
Scientific NameEriocnemis luciani
FamilyTrochilidae
Wingspan (cm)12
Length (cm)11.5
Weight (g)5
Plumage DetailsMales have iridescent golden-green upperparts and underparts, with a glittering emerald throat. Key features include prominent white 'puffs' on its legs and a brilliant sapphire-blue patch on its vent. The tail is long, dark bronzy-green, and forked. Females are similar but may have less extensive throat iridescence.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations typically consist of soft, high-pitched 'tsip' or 'tseet' calls, often given while foraging or in flight.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsmountain, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the high Andes mountains of southern Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and northern Bolivia.
Identifying Featuresiridescent green plumage, white leg puffs, sapphire-blue vent patch, long forked tail, small size
Description
This small, iridescent hummingbird is characterized by its brilliant green plumage, prominent white leg puffs, and a distinctive sapphire-blue patch on its vent. It typically feeds on nectar while hovering, often found in high-altitude Andean forests and shrublands.
