Inca Collarejo
Collared Inca
Coeligena torquata
Song
Collared Inca
Appearance: The Collared Inca is known for its striking appearance. It has a dark, almost black, plumage with an iridescent green sheen on its back and head. It has a white band or "collar" across its chest, which contrasts sharply with its darker body. The tail is long and forked, and the wings are narrow and pointed. It has a straight, medium-length bill suited for feeding on nectar.
Habitat: The Collared Inca is found in montane forests, preferring elevations ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 m. It inhabits cloud forests an edges of humid montane forests, where it can find abundant flowering plants.
Behavior: The Collared Inca feeds on nectar, using its specialized bill to access flowers. It also consumes small insects and spiders for protein.It is known to be territorial, often defending feeding areas vigorously against other hummingbirds. The species exhibits the agile and rapid flight of hummingbirds capable of hovering and making quick maneuvers.
Breeding: The female builds a small cup-shaped nest out of plant fibers and moss, often placed on a low branch or ledge. The female is responsible for incubating the eggs, usually two per clutch, and caring for the young once they hatch.
Conservation Status: The Collared Inca is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN.
MALE
FEMALE
Distribution
The Collared Inca is found in the Andes, particularly in the central, western and eastern mountain ranges. Not recorded in north and eastern part of the country, It is common in suitable habitats within its elevation range and can be observed in several protected areas and national parks.
Taxonomy
The Collared Inca (Coeligena torquata)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Caprimulgiformes
- Family: Trochilidae
- Genus: Coeligena
- Species: Coeligena torquata
Vocalization
The Collared Inca's vocalizations are high-pitched and include a variety of sounds such as chirps, whistles, and trills. These vocalizations are often used for communication between individuals during courtship or territorial disputes.
Specific vocal patterns of the Collared Inca can vary, they consist of rapid sequences of notes that can be quite complex. Observers often describe their calls as metallic or tinkling, fitting the energetic and vibrant nature of these birds.
