Coppery-chested Jacamar

Overview

The coppery-chested jacamar (Galbula pastazae) is a species of bird in the family Galbulidae, effectively endemic to Ecuador with rare records in Colombia and Peru. It is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, although its population is believed to be decreasing due to forest destruction.

Identification

• Measures 23 to 24 cm in length and weighs approximately 31 to 32 g.
• The male features a metallic green crown with a blue gloss, metallic bronzy green upper parts, and a shiny green throat and breast over a dark rufous belly and vent.
• The female is similar to the male but possesses a dark rufous chin and throat.
• Song consists of a rising series of wee notes that sometimes end in a descending rattle, while calls are weet notes heard singly or in a series.

Habitat

Found on the east slope of the Andes in humid montane forest between elevations of approximately 750 to 1,500 m. It typically inhabits the understory along forest edges, watercourses, and areas with tree falls or landslides that provide openings.

Diet

The species is insectivorous, but few details regarding its specific diet or feeding methods are currently known.

Did you know?

Very little is known about the species' reproductive biology, with only a single documented nest discovered, which was a burrow located in an earth bank.