Amazilia Andina
Andean Emerald
Uranomitra (franciae) franciae
Song
Andean Emerald
Appearance: The Andean Emerald is a medium-sized hummingbird measuring about 9-10 cm in length. It has a striking appearance with iridescent green plumage covering most of its body. The underparts are usually white or light gray. The tail and wings are darker, with a metallic sheen. It has a straight, medium-length bill that is blackish in color.
Habitat: This species is commonly found in montane forests and edges at elevations ranging from 800 to 2,500 m. It prefers subtropical or tropical moist montane forests, but it can also be found in secondary forests and gardens, especially where flowering plants are abundant.
Behavior: Like other hummingbirds, the Andean Emerald feeds on nectar from a variety of flowering plants. It plays an important role in pollination. It also consumes small insects and spiders to supplement its diet with proteins. It is known for its agile and rapid flight, capable of hovering in place while feeding.
Breeding: The Andean Emerald typically builds a small cup-shaped nest made of plant fibers and spider webs, often placed on a horizontal branch or in a sheltered location. The female lays two white eggs and is solely responsible for incubating them and feeding the chicks once they hatch.
Conservation Status: The Andean Emerald is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that it is not considered at immediate risk of extinction.
MALE
FEMALE
Distribution
In Colombia, the Andean Emerald is widely distributed across the Andes, from the north to the south of the country. It is found in various departments, including Antioquia, Cundinamarca, and Valle del Cauca. It occupies a range of habitats from cloud forests to gardens in urban areas, adapting well to environments where flowering plants are present. The Andean Emerald is a resilient species benefiting from its adaptability to different habitats and its role in pollination. Conservation efforts focus on preserving its natural habitats to ensure its continued survival.
Taxonomy
The Andean Emerald (Uranomitra (franciae) franciae)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Caprimulgiformes
- Family: Trochilidae
- Genus: Uranomitra
- Species: Uranomitra franciae
- Subspecie: franciae
Vocalization
The Andean Emerald is a species of hummingbird found in the Andean regions of South America. Like many hummingbirds, the Andean Emerald is known for its vibrant plumage and energetic behavior, including its vocalizations.
The vocalizations of the Andean Emerald are characterized by a series of high-pitched, rapid, and repetitive notes. These sounds are often used for communication between individuals and can vary slightly depending on the context. They are not as vocally complex as some other bird species, but their calls play important roles in their daily activities.
Purpose
Territorial Defense: Male Andean Emeralds use vocalizations to establish and defend their territories. These calls can serve as warnings to other males, signaling that a particular area is already claimed.
Mating: During the breeding season, vocalizations can be part of courtship displays. Males may use their calls to attract females or to demonstrate their fitness as potential mates.
Communication: Vocalizations also facilitate communication between individuals, such as between a mother and her young or between mates.
Alerting to Danger: Like many birds, Andean Emeralds may use vocalizations to alert others to potential threats or predators in the area.
Vocalizations of the Andean Emerald are an essential aspect of their behavioral ecology, helping them to maintain territories, attract mates, and communicate effectively within their environment.
