Chrysuronia lilliae
The Sapphire-bellied Hummingbird (*Chrysuronia lilliae*) is an exquisite and critically endangered jewel of the avian world, measuring approximately 9 cm (3.5 inches) in length and weighing a mere 4 grams. Males are particularly stunning, sporting intensely iridescent violet-blue underparts, a contrasting emerald-green back, and a distinctive white post-ocular stripe. Their straight, entirely black bill and dark, slightly forked tail are also key identification marks. Females are similar but ...
This specialized hummingbird inhabits humid submontane and montane forests, forest edges, and shade coffee plantations, typically at elevations between 900-1800 meters, occasionally descending to 400 meters.
Primarily nectivorous, feeding on nectar from a variety of flowering plants, supplemented significantly by small arthropods (insects and spiders) for protein.
Sapphire-bellied Hummingbirds are diurnal, spending their days actively foraging. They employ a 'trap-lining' strategy, visiting a regular circuit of flowering plants for nectar, but will also opportunistically defend particularly rich flower patches from competitors. Foraging also involves hover...
The Sapphire-bellied Hummingbird is a true endemic of northern Colombia, restricted to two isolated mountain ranges: the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and the Serranía de Perijá. Within these regions, its distribution is highly fragmented, with populations clinging to remaining patches of suitable...
Critically Endangered
- The Sapphire-bellied Hummingbird is endemic to just two mountain ranges in northern Colombia, making it one of the most geographically restricted bird species on Earth. - Its iridescent blue belly is a structural color, created by the microscopic structure of its feathers refracting light, rath...