Coeligena lutetiae
The Buff-winged Starfrontlet (Coeligena lutetiae) is a dazzling, large hummingbird endemic to the high-altitude cloud forests of the Andes. Measuring approximately 13-14 cm (5.1-5.5 inches) in length, including its long, straight black bill (around 3 cm), it exhibits a robust build. Males are predominantly iridescent green, with a brilliant violet-purple forehead and crown, often contrasting sharply with a prominent white post-ocular spot. Its most distinctive field mark, giving it its common...
This species primarily inhabits humid montane cloud forests, forest edges, and elfin woodlands. It is typically found at high elevations, ranging from 2,300 to 3,700 meters (7,500 to 12,100 feet) above sea level.
The diet consists predominantly of nectar, primarily obtained from long-tubed flowers like those of genera such as *Fuchsia*, *Salvia*, *Centropogon*, and *Bomarea*. They supplement their nectar intake with small arthropods, which they glean from vegetation or catch in flight.
Buff-winged Starfrontlets are primarily diurnal, actively foraging for nectar and small insects throughout the day, often perching conspicuously on exposed branches to survey their surroundings. They exhibit a solitary and territorial nature, with males fiercely defending prime feeding territorie...
The Buff-winged Starfrontlet has a restricted but somewhat continuous distribution along the Andes mountains of northwestern South America. Its breeding range extends from southwestern Colombia, through the central and eastern Andes of Ecuador, and south into the northernmost regions of Peru. In ...
Least Concern
- The Buff-winged Starfrontlet's genus name, *Coeligena*, is derived from Latin, meaning "heaven-born" or "celestial," likely referring to the iridescent plumage of these high-altitude hummingbirds. - Its distinctive golden-buff wing patch is often most visible when the bird is in flight or activ...