Sword-billed Hummingbird
Image: zoegabriel (cc-by-nc)
NameSword-billed Hummingbird
Common NameSword-billed Hummingbird
Scientific NameEnsifera ensifera
FamilyTrochilidae
Wingspan (cm)13
Length (cm)23
Weight (g)12.5
Plumage DetailsThe Sword-billed Hummingbird has iridescent green plumage on its upperparts, a duller green throat, and a whitish breast often speckled with green. Its tail is dark and forked, and its most striking feature is the extremely long, slender black bill.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include high-pitched, thin 'tsit' or 'tseet' notes, often given in flight or while perched. They also produce soft chattering sounds.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsmontane forest, cloud forest, forest edge, subtropical forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the Andes Mountains of South America, ranging from western Venezuela through Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and into Bolivia.
Identifying Featuresextremely long bill (often longer than body), iridescent green plumage, whitish breast with green spotting, hovering flight, forked tail
Description
This unique hummingbird is instantly recognizable by its extraordinarily long, straight bill, which can be longer than its entire body. It specializes in feeding on nectar from flowers with deep corollas, hovering expertly while feeding. Its flight is rapid and agile, typical of hummingbirds.
