White-sided Hillstar
NameWhite-sided Hillstar
Common NameWhite-sided Hillstar
Scientific NameOreotrochilus leucopleurus
FamilyTrochilidae
Wingspan (cm)13
Length (cm)12.5
Weight (g)7.5
Plumage DetailsMales have an iridescent emerald-green gorget, a dull bronze-green crown and upperparts, a broad white breast band, and a glossy black belly. The tail is dark with white outer rectrices. Females are duller, lacking the gorget and black belly, with a speckled throat and buffy underparts.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include sharp 'chip' notes and a rapid, chattering trill, often given during flight or while perched.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsmountain, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the high Andes of central Chile and western Argentina, typically found at elevations between 2,000 and 4,000 meters.
Identifying FeaturesIridescent emerald-green gorget (male), Broad white breast band, Glossy black belly (male), Dull bronze-green upperparts, Long, straight black bill
Description
This medium-sized hummingbird is characterized by the male's brilliant iridescent emerald-green gorget, a broad white breast band, and a contrasting glossy black belly. It typically forages for nectar in high-altitude Andean environments, often seen hovering at flowers or perching on exposed branches.
