Metalura Verde
Ecuadorian Metaltail
Metallura (williami) primolina
Song
Ecuadorian Metaltail
Appearance: The Ecuadorian Metaltail is a small hummingbird, characterized by its iridescent plumage. Males often display a shimmering green or bronze coloration on their upperparts, with a metallic sheen that can vary depending on the light. Females tend to be less vibrant, with more subdued colors, often with grayish or brownish tones on the underparts. Both sexes have a slightly curved bill, which is of many hummingbird species.
Habitat: This species inhabits high-altitude regions, often found in montane forests and shrublands. It is commonly associated with the Andean mountain range, preferring elevations ranging from 2700 to 4000 m (8900 to 13100 ft). It thrives in environments with abundant flowering plants, which provide the nectar that constitutes a significant portion of its diet.
Behavior: Ecuadorian Metaltails are known for their agility and speed, traits common among hummingbirds. They feed on nectar, using their specialized bills and hovering flight to access flowers. In addition to nectar, they may also consume small insects and spiders, which provide essential proteins. These birds are solitary, except during the breeding season, and can be territorial, often defending feeding areas from other hummingbirds.
Breeding: The breeding behavior of the Ecuadorian Metaltail is not extensively documented but they engage in courtship displays involving aerial maneuvers and vocalizations. Nests are cup-shaped and constructed from plant fibers and other natural materials on branches or in sheltered locations. The female is responsible for incubating the eggs and caring for the young.
Conservation Status: The Ecuadorian Metaltail is not considered to be at significant risk of extinction.
MALE
FEMALE
Distribution
The Ecuadorian Metaltail is found in the Andean region in the southern parts of the country in the departments of Nariño and Putumayo in the border with Ecuador. Its distribution overlaps with fit montane habitats, where it can access the floral resources it needs.
Taxonomy
The Ecuadorian Metaltail (Metallura (williami) primolina)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Caprimulgiformes
- Family: Trochilidae
- Genus: Metallura
- Species: Metallura williami
- Subspecies: premolina
Vocalization
The vocalizations of the Ecuadorian Metaltail consist of a series of high-pitched, rapid notes or trills. These sounds can vary in pitch and rhythm, and they are often used by males to establish territory and attract females. The calls can be described as sharp and metallic, fitting the bird's name.
The Ecuadorian Metaltail may also produces mechanical sounds with their wings during flight displays. These sounds can be part of their courtship rituals or territorial displays.
Hummingbird vocalizations can be complex and vary between species, and even individuals, so detailed studies are often needed to fully understand the specific vocal patterns and their meanings.
