Mango Pechiverde
Green-breasted Mango
Anthracothorax prevostii
Song
Green-breasted Mango
Appearance: They are relatively large hummingbirds, measuring about 11-12 cm (4.3-4.7 in) in length. Males have a striking metallic green plumage on the upperparts and breast, with a distinctive dark blue to black central stripe running down the throat and chest. Females are similar but have a white underbelly with a dark central stripe. They possess a long, slightly decurved bill, which is adapted for feeding on nectar.
Habitat: The Green-breasted Mango inhabits a variety of environments, including tropical and subtropical moist lowland forests, plantations, gardens, and open areas with flowering plants. They are often found at elevations ranging from sea level to around 400 m.
Behavior: These hummingbirds feed on nectar from a wide range of flowering plants. They are known to be territorial, aggressively defending their feeding areas from other hummingbirds. Known for their agile and rapid flight, they can hover in place while feeding and are capable of swift, darting movements. They produce a series of high-pitched, metallic chips and trills, which are of many hummingbird species.
Breeding: The female Green-breasted Mango builds a small cup-shaped nest on a horizontal branch or in a shrub. The nest is constructed from plant fibers and spider silk, often camouflaged with bits of lichen or moss. Females lay two eggs per clutch. The female is solely responsible for incubation and caring for the chicks once they hatch.
Conservation Status: The Green-breasted Mango is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.
MALE
FEMALE
Distribution
The Green-breasted Mango is found in the northern Caribbean regions of the department of La Guajira. The species benefits from this Colombia's diverse range of habitats, which support a rich variety of flowering plants.
Taxonomy
The Green-breasted Mango (Anthracothorax prevostii)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Caprimulgiformes
- Family: Trochilidae
- Genus: Anthracothorax
- Species: Anthracothorax prevostii
Vocalization
The vocalizations of the Green-breasted Mango are not as extensively documented as those of some other bird species, but they consist of a series of high-pitched, sharp, and often repetitive calls. These sounds are used for communication between individuals during courtship or territorial disputes. The calls serve to establish dominance or to attract a mate.
Purpose
Feeding: Green-breasted Mangos feed on nectar from flowers that provides them with the energy needed for rapid wing beats and active lifestyle. They consume small insects and spiders to fulfill their protein requirements.
Pollination: While feeding on nectar, they inadvertently transfer pollen from one flower to another, playing a crucial role in the pollination of various plant species.
Territorial Defense: They are territorial and will aggressively defend their feeding areas from other hummingbirds and intruders. Their vocalizations and aerial displays are part of their strategy to maintain control over their territory.
Breeding: During the breeding season, males may use vocalizations and displays to attract females. The males perform elaborate flight displays to court potential mates.
The Green-breasted Mango's vocalizations and behaviors are integral to its survival and reproduction, helping it to communicate, feed, and reproduce in its natural habitat.
