Cola-de-lira Raqueta
Racket-tipped Thorntail
Discosura longicaudus
Song
Racket-tipped Thorntail
Appearance: The Racket-tipped Thorntail is a small hummingbird measuring about 10 to 11 cm in length, including its long tail. Males are particularly striking, with iridescent green plumage on the head and body. They have a long, forked tail with outer feathers that end in unique, racket-shaped tips. Females are less colorful, with more subdued green and white plumage and a shorter tail without the racket tips.
Habitat: This species is found in tropical and subtropical moist lowland forests, forest edges, and sometimes in plantations and gardens. They are found at elevations ranging from sea level up to about 1200 m.
Behavior: The Racket-tipped Thorntail feeds on nectar from a variety of flowers. They are also known to consume small insects and spiders for protein. They are agile fliers, capable of hovering in place while feeding, and are known for their rapid, darting movements. Males can be territorial, often defending feeding areas from other hummingbirds.
Breeding: The breeding season varies depending on the region. Nests are small cups made of plant fibers and spider silk, often placed on a tree branch or leaf. Females lay two white eggs, which are incubated for about two weeks. The female is responsible for incubating the eggs and feeding the chicks once they hatch.
Conservation Status: As of the last assessment, the Racket-tipped Thorntail is listed as Least Concern.
FEMALE
Distribution
The Racket-tipped Thorntail is found in the eastern part of Colombia that includes the Orinoco basin departments of Vichada, Vaupés,, Guainía, and Meta. This species is more common in areas with abundant flowering plants, which provide the necessary food resources. The Racket-tipped Thorntail is a fascinating species with unique features that make it a subject of interest for bird watchers and researchers alike.
Taxonomy
The Racket-tipped Thorntail (Discosura longicaudus)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Caprimulgiformes
- Family: Trochilidae
- Genus: Discosura
- Species: Discosura longicaudus
Vocalization
The Racket-tipped Thorntail is a small hummingbird species known for its distinctive tail feathers, which resemble rackets. These birds are found in the Amazon Basin.
Vocalization
Racket-tipped Thorntails produce a variety of vocalizations. Their calls are high-pitched and can include a series of chirps, whistles, and trills. These sounds are used for communication between individuals, such as signaling territory boundaries or attracting mates. The vocalizations vary slightly depending on the context and the individual bird.
Purpose
Territorial Defense: Male Racket-tipped Thorntails use vocalizations to establish and defend their territories. By singing or calling, they can warn other males to stay away from their feeding areas or nesting sites.
Mating: During the breeding season, vocalizations play a crucial role in attracting mates. Males may perform elaborate displays, combining vocal sounds with physical maneuvers, to impress females.
Communication: Vocalizations are also used for general communication between birds, such as signaling alarm or coordinating movements within a pair or family group.
Feeding: While not directly related to vocalization, the Racket-tipped Thorntail's feeding habits are worth noting. They feed on nectar from flowers, using their specialized bills to access the nectar deep within blossoms. They may also consume small insects for protein.
Vocalizations of the Racket-tipped Thorntail are an integral part of their behavior, facilitating communication and interaction within their environment.
