Lesser Violetear

Overview

The lesser violetear (Colibri cyanotus), also known as the mountain violet-ear, is a medium-sized metallic green hummingbird found across Central and South America. It inhabits forested regions ranging from Costa Rica to Argentina and is distinguished by its preference for humid, high-altitude environments.

Identification

• Medium-sized hummingbird, averaging 9.7 to 12 cm in length.
• Shining green upperparts with a glittering violet ear-patch on the sides of the neck.
• Tail is metallic blue-green with bronzy central feathers and a prominent black subterminal band.
• Solitary males sing a monotonous, sharp, and dry "tsu-tzeek" from exposed twigs at a rate of about one call per second.

Habitat

Found in the canopy and borders of subtropical and lower temperate forests, secondary woodland, scrub, and clearings on both slopes of the Andes. It typically occupies altitudes between 1,500 and 3,300 m, though it can descend to 900 m, generally preferring humid cloud forests over drier areas.

Diet

Forages alone but gathers at flowering trees, particularly coffee-shade Inga species, to feed primarily on nectar and small insects. It often holds and defends a feeding territory at mid-level to canopy heights.

Did you know?

A pair of lesser violetears has been recorded attaining a speed of 90 mph (140 km/h) during a chase, representing the greatest flying speed ever documented for a hummingbird.