Metalura Verde
Viridian Metaltail
Metallura williami
Song
Viridian Metaltail
Appearance: The Viridian Metaltail is a small hummingbird, measuring about 10 to 11 cm in length. It has a striking iridescent plumage. The males have a brilliant green body with a metallic sheen, while females are slightly duller with more muted tones. The tail feathers have a metallic green or bronze. It has a slender, slightly curved bill adapted for feeding on nectar.
Habitat: This species is found at high elevations, ranging from 2,500 to 4,000 m above sea level. It inhabits montane forests, shrublands, and páramo ecosystems, which are characterized by open, grassy areas with scattered shrubs and small trees. The Viridian Metaltail prefers areas with abundant flowering plants, which provide a rich source of nectar.
Behavior: It feeds on nectar, using its specialized bill and tongue to access the nectar from flowers. It may also consume small insects for protein. The Viridian Metaltail can be quite territorial, aggressively defending feeding areas from other birds. It exhibits the typical rapid and agile flight of hummingbirds, capable of hovering in place while feeding.
Breeding: The breeding season varies depending on the region, but nests are built in dense vegetation or on cliffs. The nest is a small cup made from plant fibers, moss, and lichen, often lined with softer materials. Females lay two small white eggs, which they incubate alone.
Conservation Status: The Viridian Metaltail is classified as Least Concern.
MALE
FEMALE
Distribution
The Viridian Metaltail is found in the central range of the Andes in the departments of Antioquia, Caldas, Risaralda, Tolima, Huila, Valle del Cauca, and Cauca. Its range is not continuous, as it is often found in isolated pockets of suitable habitat across the Andean region. The Viridian Metaltail is a good example of the diverse hummingbird species found in the Andes, adapted to high-altitude environments and reliant on specific ecological conditions for survival.
Taxonomy
The Viridian Metaltail (Metallura williami)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Caprimulgiformes
- Family: Trochilidae
- Genus: Metallura
- Species: Metallura williami
Vocalization
The vocalizations of the Viridian Metaltail are high-pitched and can be described as a series of rapid, sharp chips or trills. These sounds are often used for communication between individuals during feeding or territorial displays.
The wingbeats of hummingbirds can produce a buzzing or humming sound that characteristic of the species. While specific recordings or detailed descriptions of the Viridian Metaltail's vocalizations may not be widely available, they are similar to those of other hummingbirds in their range.
