Metalura Verde
Colombian Metaltail
Metallura (williami) recisa
Song
Colombian Metaltail (subsp.)
Appearance: The Colombian Metaltail is small bird 8.6 cm in length. It has iridescent plumage, with males displaying vibrant metallic green and bronze colors. The tail is a striking metallic color, which can range from coppery to purplish tones. Males are more colorful than females, which may have more muted tones and less iridescence.
Habitat: The Colombian Metaltail is found at high elevations ranging from 2800 to 3800 m above sea level. It inhabits montane forests, shrublands, and páramo ecosystems, which are characterized by cool temperatures and high humidity.
Behavior: It feeds on nectar from a variety of flowering plants. It plays a role in pollination due to its feeding habits. Males are known to be territorial, often defending feeding areas from other hummingbirds. The species is known for its agile and rapid flight, which is common of hummingbirds.
Breeding: The Colombian Metaltail builds small cup-shaped nests, often hidden in dense vegetation. Breeding behaviors and specific nesting habits are not extensively documented, but they are believed to be similar to other hummingbirds, involving courtship displays and the female taking on the primary role in raising the young.
Conservation Status: The Colombian Metaltail as a subspecies, is classified as Least Concern.
MALE
FEMALE
Distribution
The Colombian Metaltail is found in the Andes in the department of Antioquia and southern Cordoba in their montane and páramo habitats.
Taxonomy
The Colombian Metaltail (Metallura (williami) recisa)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Caprimulgiformes
- Family: Trochilidae
- Genus: Metallura
- Species: Metallura williami
- Subspecie: recisa
Vocalization
Their vocalizations are high-pitched and consist of a series of rapid, repetitive notes or trills that are used for communication to attract mates or defending territory.
The specific vocalizations of the Colombian Metaltail vary but they can be described as sharp and metallic, fitting the bird's energetic and vibrant nature.
