Wire-crested Thorntail
NameWire-crested Thorntail
Common NameWire-crested Thorntail
Scientific NameDiscosura popelairii
FamilyTrochilidae
Wingspan (cm)10
Length (cm)11.5
Weight (g)3
Plumage DetailsMales have iridescent green upperparts, a prominent spiky crest, and a white post-ocular spot. The throat is dark, the belly is dusky, and a distinctive white patch is present on the flanks. The deeply forked tail is black with extremely long, wire-like outer feathers.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include soft, high-pitched chips and thin, reedy trills, often given while foraging or interacting.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound on the eastern slopes of the Andes, ranging from southern Colombia through eastern Ecuador to northern Peru.
Identifying Featuresprominent spiky crest, extremely long wire-like forked tail (males), iridescent green plumage, white flank patch
Description
This tiny, iridescent hummingbird is notable for its distinctive spiky crest and the male's extremely long, wire-like forked tail. It primarily feeds on nectar, hovering gracefully at flowers in humid montane forests.
