Rainbow Starfrontlet

Overview

The rainbow starfrontlet, Coeligena iris, is a species of hummingbird in the tribe Heliantheini found in Ecuador and Peru. It comprises six subspecies that exhibit striking differences in plumage, with some having previously been considered separate species. The species is currently assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• Length of 12.5 to 14 cm with a long, straight, black bill and a white spot behind the eye.
• Males of the nominate subspecies feature a glittering yellow-green forecrown transitioning to blue, with chestnut underparts and a violet throat spot.
• Plumage varies significantly by subspecies, including turquoise crowns, coppery hindnecks, and golden-green backs.
• Vocalisations include a 'thin, wiry chatter, rising and falling, with rattles and squeaky notes' and 'tsit' or 'tip' sounds.

Habitat

Inhabits the edges of humid and semi-humid cloudforest, gardens, and riparian scrub in Ecuador and Peru. Elevations typically range from 1,700 to 3,300 m, though records exist up to 4,000 m in Huascarán National Park.

Diet

Forages for nectar by trap-lining a circuit of flowering plants, predominantly those with tubular red flowers such as Embothrium, Fuchsia, Iochroma, Mutisia, Salvia, and Tilandsia. Usually forages within 2 to 4 m of the ground and captures small arthropods by hawking.

Did you know?

Although currently classified as Least Concern, the IUCN originally assessed the rainbow starfrontlet as Near Threatened, though it was reclassified in 2004.