Chalcostigma ruficeps
A diminutive yet robust hummingbird, the Rufous-capped Thornbill (Chalcostigma ruficeps) measures approximately 10-12 cm in length and weighs 3-5 grams. Its most striking feature is the titular rufous cap, a rich chestnut patch adorning its crown, which contrasts with its otherwise dull bronzy-green upperparts and pale greyish underparts. A subtle white malar stripe often accents the face, and its tail is typically dusky green, slightly forked. The straight, slender black bill, characteristic...
Found primarily in humid montane forest edges, subalpine scrub, paramo borders, and elfin forest. It thrives at high elevations, typically between 2,500 and 4,000 meters above sea level.
Primarily feeds on nectar from a variety of small, often tubular flowers, supplemented significantly by small insects and spiders gleaned from foliage or caught in flight.
The Rufous-capped Thornbill is a diurnal and highly energetic species, constantly active during daylight hours to fuel its high metabolism. Foraging involves a mix of hovering to sip nectar from small flowers and gleaning tiny insects from foliage or catching them in mid-air. It often employs a t...
The Rufous-capped Thornbill is endemic to the Andes Mountains, with a disjunct distribution across several countries. Its range extends from the Central and Eastern Andes of Colombia, south through the Andes of Ecuador, and into Peru, where it is found in the northern, central, and southern cordi...
Least Concern
- One of the smallest resident birds of the high Andes, adapted to thrive in oxygen-thin air and cold temperatures. - Its relatively straight bill distinguishes it from several other 'thornbill' species which possess distinctly upturned or decurved bills. - Despite its small size, it maintains a ...