Violet-tailed Sylph
NameViolet-tailed Sylph
Common NameViolet-tailed Sylph
Scientific NameAglaiocercus coelestis
FamilyTrochilidae
Wingspan (cm)13
Length (cm)19.5
Weight (g)4.5
Plumage DetailsMales have an iridescent green body, a coppery-gold crown and throat, and a very long, deeply forked tail that is iridescent violet-blue to purple. Females are green above, white below with green spotting, and have a shorter, less deeply forked tail with white tips.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include high-pitched, thin 'tsip' notes and a rapid series of 'tsee-tsee-tsee' calls, often given while foraging or perched.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the humid western slopes of the Andes in southwestern Colombia and northwestern Ecuador, typically at elevations between 900-2,100 meters.
Identifying FeaturesExtremely long, deeply forked, iridescent violet-blue tail (males), Brilliant iridescent green plumage, Coppery-gold crown and throat (males), Relatively long, straight black bill
Description
This stunning hummingbird is characterized by its brilliant iridescent green plumage and, in males, an exceptionally long, deeply forked, violet-blue tail. It is an agile flyer, primarily feeding on nectar while hovering, and is found in humid montane forests.
