Ángel Gorgiturmalina
Tourmaline Sunangel
Heliangelus exortis
Song
Tourmaline Sunangel
Appearance: The Tourmaline Sunangel is a small hummingbird ranging from 10 cm (4 in) in length. It is known for its striking iridescent plumage. Males exhibit a glittering green body with a brilliant violet-blue throat patch, known as a gorget. Females are slightly less vibrant but still display a similar color palette with a more subdued throat. Both sexes have a slightly forked tail, which is often edged with white or a lighter color. The species has a straight, slender bill adapted for nectar feeding.
Habitat: The Tourmaline Sunangel is found in the Andean regions. It inhabits montane forests and cloud forests at elevations between 2000 to 3400 m. Prefers areas with dense vegetation, such as forest edges, clearings, and shrubby areas within its altitudinal range.
Behavior: Primarily nectarivorous, feeding on a variety of flowering plants. It also consumes small insects and spiders for protein. Males are known to be territorial, often defending feeding territories aggressively against intruders, including other hummingbirds. Exhibits the rapid and agile flight associated with hummingbirds, capable of hovering in place while feeding.
Breeding: The Tourmaline Sunangel builds small cup-shaped nests out of plant fibers and moss that are placed on a branch or in a sheltered location. Females lay two white eggs per clutch and are solely responsible for incubation and feeding the chicks. The breeding season varies by region but generally aligns with periods of increased flower availability.
Conservation Status: The Tourmaline Sunangel is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN.
MALE
FEMALE
Distribution
The Tourmaline Sunangel is found primarily in the eastern, central and western Andean ranges at altitudes ranging from 2,000 to 3,400 m over the sea level.
Taxonomy
The Tourmaline Sunangel (Heliangelus exortis)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Caprimulgiformes
- Family: Trochilidae
- Genus: Heliangelus
- Species: Heliangelus exortis
Vocalization
The primary purpose of the Tourmaline Sunangel's vocalizations is related to survival and reproduction. By establishing and defending territories, attracting mates, and communicating with others, these vocalizations play a crucial role in the bird's daily life.
Territorial Defense: Males often use vocalizations to defend their feeding territories from other males or intruders. The sounds can serve as warnings or deterrents to potential competitors.
Communication: Vocalizations are also used to communicate with potential mates or other members of their species. This can include courtship calls or signals to alert others of danger.
Navigation: While not as common, some vocalizations may assist in navigation through dense forest areas by helping birds maintain contact with each other.
Purpose
The Tourmaline Sunangel relies on its vocal abilities to interact with its environment and ensure its survival in the competitive ecosystems it inhabits.
