Haplophaedia assimilis
The Buff-thighed Puffleg, *Haplophaedia assimilis*, is a captivating small hummingbird endemic to the cloud forests of the Andes. Measuring approximately 9-10 cm in length and weighing a mere 4-5.5 grams, it presents a delicate yet robust emerald-green plumage that shimmers in the dappled forest light. Its most striking and eponymous feature is the dense tufts of buff-colored feathers adorning its legs, appearing like fluffy bloomers - a distinctive field mark that sets it apart from other hu...
Found primarily in humid montane and cloud forests, ranging from forest interior to borders and secondary growth. It typically inhabits elevations between 1,500 and 3,000 meters, occasionally lower or higher.
Feeds predominantly on nectar from a variety of small, tubular flowers, supplemented by small insects gleaned from foliage or caught in flight.
The Buff-thighed Puffleg is a diurnal and rather solitary hummingbird, frequently observed foraging quietly in the understory or mid-strata of its humid forest habitat. It employs a trap-lining foraging strategy, visiting a regular circuit of flowering plants for nectar, but also readily gleans s...
The Buff-thighed Puffleg is endemic to the humid montane forests of the Andes in South America, spanning parts of Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. Its breeding and year-round resident range extends from southern Colombia (Nariño department) through Ecuador and south into northern Peru (south to Amazo...
Least Concern
- The Buff-thighed Puffleg's most distinctive feature, the 'buff puffs' on its legs, are actually dense feather tufts that may help keep its legs warm in the cool, moist cloud forest environment. - Despite its relatively widespread distribution, it is considered one of the more inconspicuous puff...