Chalcostigma olivaceum
The Olivaceous Thornbill (Chalcostigma olivaceum) is a striking, medium-sized hummingbird native to the high-altitude Andes of Peru and Bolivia. Measuring around 12-13 cm (4.7-5.1 inches) in length and weighing approximately 5-6 grams, its plumage is predominantly a subdued olive-green, providing excellent camouflage amidst its montane scrub habitat. Its most distinguishing feature, and the origin of its scientific name 'Chalcostigma' (meaning 'bronze spot'), is a brilliant, iridescent gorget...
Found primarily in high-altitude humid montane scrub, paramo, and puna grasslands, typically at elevations between 3,000 and 4,500 meters (9,800-14,800 feet) in the Andes.
Feeds primarily on nectar from various high-altitude flowering plants and supplements this with a significant amount of small insects, which are either gleaned from vegetation or hawked in flight.
Olivaceous Thornbills are diurnal and generally solitary birds, frequently perching on exposed twigs within their shrubby territories, often returning to the same favored spots. They exhibit a unique foraging strategy, gleaning small insects from the undersides of leaves and twigs, and also activ...
The Olivaceous Thornbill is endemic to the high-altitude Andes of southern Peru and northern Bolivia, where it maintains a relatively restricted but stable distribution. Its primary breeding range extends from the departments of Cuzco and Puno in Peru, southward into the departments of La Paz, Co...
Least Concern
- The 'Chalcostigma' in its scientific name translates to 'bronze spot,' referring to its brilliant iridescent gorget. - Unlike many hummingbirds with long, specialized bills, the Olivaceous Thornbill possesses a short, needle-like bill, reflecting its dual foraging strategy of gleaning insects a...