Colibrí del Chimborazo
Ecuadorian Hillstar
Oreotrochilus chimborazo
Song
Ecuadorian Hillstar
Appearance: The Ecuadorian Hillstar is a medium-sized hummingbird. Males have a striking iridescent green plumage with a distinctive violet-blue throat patch. Females are less colorful, with a more subdued green and grey coloration. They have a short, straight bill compared to other hummingbirds, which is adapted to their feeding habits.
Habitat: This species is found at high altitudes, ranging from 3600 to 4300 m. It inhabits the páramo ecosystem, which is characterized by grasslands, shrubs, and scattered rocks of high Andean regions specifically in the southern department for Nariño and western Putumayo.
Behavior: The Ecuadorian Hillstar feeds on nectar from flowering plants adapted to high-altitude conditions. It consumes small insects for protein. It has adapted to cold temperatures and low oxygen levels of its high-altitude habitat.
Breeding: The species builds its nest in sheltered locations, such as under overhangs or in crevices, to protect against harsh weather. Little detailed information is available, but like other hummingbirds, they likely lay one to two eggs per clutch and have a short incubation period.
Conservation Status: The Ecuadorian Hillstar is classified as Least Concern.
MALE
FEMALE
Distribution
While the Ecuadorian Hillstar is found in Ecuador, its range does extend slightly into southern Colombia. The Ecuadorian Hillstar is a fascinating species adapted to the unique conditions of the high Andes.
Taxonomy
The Ecuadorian Hillstar (Oreotrochilus chimborazo)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Caprimulgiformes
- Family: Trochilidae
- Genus: Oreotrochilus
- Species: Oreotrochilus chimborazo
Vocalization
The vocalizations of the Ecuadorian Hillstar are not as complex as those of songbirds. They do produce a range of sounds, including:
Chirps and Chatters: These sounds are used for communication between individuals in territorial disputes or during courtship.
High-Pitched Calls: These calls can be used to signal alarm or alert other birds to potential threats.
Buzzing: The sound of their wings can also serve as a form of communication, particularly during aggressive interactions or mating displays.
Purpose
The vocalizations and other behaviors of the Ecuadorian Hillstar serve several key purposes:
Territorial Defense: Like many hummingbirds, the Ecuadorian Hillstar is highly territorial. Males often use vocalizations and aggressive displays to defend their feeding territories from intruders.
Courtship: During the breeding season, males may use calls and displays to attract females. These behaviors are crucial for successful mating and reproduction.
Communication: Vocalizations help maintain communication between individuals, such as between a mother and her chicks, or between mates.
Alarm Calls: These calls alert other birds to the presence of predators, helping to protect themselves in the area.
The vocalizations and behaviors of the Ecuadorian Hillstar are essential for their survival and reproductive success in the challenging environments of the Andean highlands.
