Calliphlox amethystina
The Amethyst Woodstar (*Calliphlox amethystina*) is a captivatingly small hummingbird, measuring approximately 7.5 to 9 cm (3-3.5 in) in length and weighing a mere 3-4 grams. Males are instantly recognizable by their spectacular iridescent amethyst-purple gorget and crown, contrasting sharply with a bright green back, white breast, and purplish-pink flanks. Their deeply forked, dark tail adds to their distinctive profile, often spread like a fan during displays. Females lack the brilliant gor...
This species primarily inhabits the edges of tropical and subtropical humid forests, clearings, secondary growth, gardens, and coffee plantations. It is typically found from sea level up to 1,500 meters (occasionally higher) in mountainous regions.
Their diet consists primarily of nectar gathered from a wide array of flowering plants, supplemented by small arthropods (insects and spiders) hawked in flight or gleaned from foliage.
Amethyst Woodstars are diurnal and primarily solitary birds, except during courtship. Males are highly territorial, fiercely defending prime foraging and display territories from rivals, often with aggressive chases. During courtship, males perform impressive aerial U-shaped display flights, asce...
The Amethyst Woodstar has a broad distribution across east-central South America. Its breeding and resident range extends from central Brazil, covering much of the eastern and southern states, south through eastern Bolivia, Paraguay, and northeastern Argentina (Misiones, Corrientes, Formosa, Chac...
Least Concern
- Amethyst Woodstars are among the smallest bird species in the world, with weights often barely exceeding that of a U.S. penny. - The male's brilliant gorget and crown can appear deep purple, pink, or even black depending on the angle of light and the observer's position. - During their elaborat...