Heliangelus strophianus
The Gorgeted Sunangel (Heliangelus strophianus) is a captivating medium-sized hummingbird, measuring approximately 9.5-11 cm (3.7-4.3 inches) in length and weighing around 4.5-6.5 grams. Males are particularly striking, adorned with an iridescent, purplish-red to magenta gorget that can appear fiery orange or deep purple depending on the light, contrasting sharply with their otherwise dark, bronzy-green plumage. A distinct white postocular spot and a white pectoral band partially outlining th...
This sunangel primarily inhabits humid montane cloud forests and forest edges, often favoring areas with dense undergrowth. It is typically found at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,800 meters (3,900 to 9,200 feet).
The Gorgeted Sunangel feeds primarily on nectar, obtained from a variety of flowering plants, and supplements its diet with small insects captured in flight or gleaned from foliage.
Gorgeted Sunangels are primarily diurnal, active from dawn to dusk, often perching inconspicuously in the understory during less active periods. They employ a 'trap-lining' foraging strategy, repeatedly visiting scattered flower patches within a defined territory to collect nectar. Males are high...
The Gorgeted Sunangel is endemic to the humid montane forests of the western slopes of the Andes, primarily found in southwestern Colombia and northwestern Ecuador. Its breeding range largely overlaps with its year-round presence, as it is a resident species with no significant migratory movement...
Least Concern
- The Gorgeted Sunangel's vibrant gorget can appear purplish-red, fiery orange, or even deep magenta depending on the angle of light and the observer's perspective, making it a true aerial gem. - Unlike many hummingbirds that hover constantly, Sunangels, including this species, often perch on twi...