Myrtis fanny
A jewel of the Andes, the Purple-collared Woodstar (Myrtis fanny) is a diminutive and dazzling hummingbird, measuring a mere 7-8 cm (2.8-3.1 inches) in length and weighing around 2.5-3.5 grams. Males are instantly recognizable by their brilliant amethyst-purple gorget (often appearing as a collar), contrasting sharply with a white breast and flanks streaked with green, and iridescent greenish-bronze upperparts. A distinct white post-ocular stripe and a deeply forked tail with dark outer rectr...
Primarily found in arid and semi-arid scrublands, dry woodlands, shrubby slopes, and disturbed areas like gardens and agricultural edges. Typically observed at elevations ranging from near sea level up to 3,000 meters (9,800 feet) in the Andes.
Nectar from a variety of small, tubular flowers, particularly those found in arid scrub. Supplements its diet with small insects and spiders, caught in flight (hawking) or gleaned from foliage.
The Purple-collared Woodstar is diurnal, active from dawn to dusk, constantly foraging to fuel its high metabolism, often perching inconspicuously on small branches between feeding bouts. It employs a "trap-lining" foraging strategy, visiting a regular circuit of flowering plants, but also engage...
The Purple-collared Woodstar is endemic to the Andes of South America, primarily ranging from southwestern Ecuador through Peru. In Ecuador, it is found in the provinces of Loja, Azuay, and El Oro, inhabiting the arid intermontane valleys and western slopes. Its stronghold is in Peru, where it is...
Least Concern
- The Purple-collared Woodstar is one of the smallest hummingbird species, often compared to large bees in size. - Males can display their vibrant amethyst gorget through specialized feather structures that refract light, making it appear to change color with viewing angle. - Despite their small ...