Violet-throated Metaltail
NameViolet-throated Metaltail
Common NameViolet-throated Metaltail
Scientific NameMetallura baroni
FamilyTrochilidae
Wingspan (cm)12
Length (cm)10.5
Weight (g)5
Plumage DetailsMales have a dark bronzy-green body with a striking iridescent violet throat patch. They possess a white post-ocular spot and a short, straight black bill. The tail is dark and slightly forked. Females are similar but with a duller throat or lacking the patch, often having whitish underparts.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations typically consist of high-pitched, thin 'tsit' or 'tseep' notes, often emitted while foraging or in flight.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsmountain, forest, grassland
Conservation Statuscritically-endangered
Geographic RangeThis species is endemic to a very restricted area within the Andes of southern Ecuador, primarily found in the Azuay and Loja provinces.
Identifying Featuresiridescent violet throat patch (male), dark bronzy-green plumage, small size, short, straight black bill, white post-ocular spot, high-altitude Andean habitat
Description
The Violet-throated Metaltail is a small hummingbird endemic to the high Andes of Ecuador. Males are distinguished by their brilliant iridescent violet throat patch, contrasting with their dark bronzy-green body. It typically forages for nectar in montane shrublands and forests.
