Wedge-tailed Sabrewing
NameWedge-tailed Sabrewing
Common NameWedge-tailed Sabrewing
Scientific NamePampa curvipennis
FamilyTrochilidae
Wingspan (cm)16.5
Length (cm)12.7
Weight (g)9
Plumage DetailsMales have iridescent green upperparts, a striking iridescent violet crown, and a green throat and breast contrasting with a grayish belly. Females and immatures (as shown) have green upperparts, a duller green crown without violet, and grayish underparts, sometimes with faint green spotting on the flanks. Both sexes have a long, slightly decurved black bill and a dark, wedge-shaped tail.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of high-pitched, rapid chips or squeaks, often described as 'tsip-tsip-tsip' or a dry 'chup'. They also produce a distinctive whirring sound from their wings during flight.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThis species is endemic to southeastern Mexico, specifically the Yucatán Peninsula, and extends into northern Central America, including Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras.
Identifying FeaturesMedium-sized hummingbird, Long, slightly decurved black bill, Wedge-shaped tail, Males with iridescent violet crown, Females/immatures with green upperparts and grayish underparts
Description
The Wedge-tailed Sabrewing is a medium-sized hummingbird characterized by its long, slightly decurved bill and wedge-shaped tail. Males display iridescent green plumage with a violet crown, while females and immatures, like the one pictured, are duller with green upperparts and grayish underparts. They are often found perching conspicuously in their forest habitats.
