Sword-billed Hummingbird
Image: Alina Martin (cc-by)
NameSword-billed Hummingbird
Common NameSword-billed Hummingbird
Scientific NameEnsifera ensifera
FamilyTrochilidae
Wingspan (cm)13
Length (cm)17
Weight (g)12.5
Plumage DetailsThe Sword-billed Hummingbird has iridescent green upperparts, duller greyish-green underparts, and a distinctive white spot behind the eye. Its tail is dark and slightly forked.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations consist of high-pitched, thin chirps and squeaks, often given in flight or while feeding.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsmontane forest, cloud forest, forest edge, subtropical forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the high Andes mountains of South America, ranging from Venezuela, through Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru, south to Bolivia.
Identifying Featuresexceptionally long bill (often longer than body), iridescent green plumage, white post-ocular spot, specialized feeding posture (head tilted upwards)
Description
This remarkable hummingbird is instantly recognizable by its extraordinarily long bill, which can be longer than its entire body. It uses this specialized bill to access nectar from deep-tubed flowers, often hovering with its head tilted upwards. Its flight is agile and precise, typical of hummingbirds.
