Sword-billed Hummingbird
NameSword-billed Hummingbird
Common NameSword-billed Hummingbird
Scientific NameEnsifera ensifera
FamilyTrochilidae
Wingspan (cm)13
Length (cm)20
Weight (g)12.5
Plumage DetailsThe body is iridescent emerald green, appearing scaly on the back and flanks. The crown and nape are dusky green to blackish. Males have a small, iridescent yellowish-orange gorget on the throat, which is less prominent or absent in females. The wings are dark, dusky brown, and the tail is dark, slightly forked. The most striking feature is the extremely long, straight, black bill, which can measure up to 11 cm.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations are typically high-pitched, thin, and often described as 'tsit' or 'tseet' notes, sometimes given in a rapid series. These calls are usually short and sharp.
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 southern Colombia through Ecuador and Peru to northern Bolivia. It typically inhabits high-altitude areas between 1,700 and 3,500 meters.
Identifying Featuresextremely long bill (longer than its body), iridescent emerald green plumage, yellowish-orange throat patch (males), dark head, specialized feeding on long-tubed flowers
Description
This striking hummingbird is instantly recognizable by its extraordinarily long bill, which can be longer than its entire body. Its plumage is primarily iridescent green, with a dark head and a distinctive yellowish-orange patch on its throat. It is an agile flyer, despite its unusual bill, and specializes in feeding from flowers with deep corollas.
