Myrmia micrura
The Short-tailed Woodstar, *Myrmia micrura*, is a captivating and diminutive hummingbird, notable for being one of the smallest bird species in its range. Adults typically measure a mere 6.5-7 cm (2.6-2.8 in) in length and weigh just 2.2-2.5 grams. Males boast iridescent bronze-green upperparts, a striking white post-ocular stripe, and brilliant violet-purple gorget, contrasting with white underparts and green flanks. Their defining feature, and the source of their common name, is an exceptio...
Found in arid and semi-arid scrub, dry deciduous forest, and thorn forest edges, typically at elevations from sea level up to 2500 meters.
Primarily nectar, especially from small-flowered plants and cacti, supplemented with small insects and spiders gleaned from foliage or caught in flight.
Short-tailed Woodstars are diurnal and primarily solitary, though they may gather loosely at rich food sources. Like many hummingbirds, they can enter torpor during cold nights to conserve energy. Foraging involves agile hovering to sip nectar from a variety of small flowers, often low to the gro...
The Short-tailed Woodstar is resident to a restricted geographical area in southwestern South America. Its primary breeding and year-round range encompasses southwestern Ecuador, particularly in the provinces of Loja, El Oro, and Guayas, extending south into northwestern Peru. In Peru, it is foun...
Least Concern
- It is one of the smallest hummingbirds in the world, often weighing less than a quarter of a US nickel. - Its scientific name, *Myrmia micrura*, literally translates to 'ant-like' and 'small tail', aptly describing its diminutive size and most distinctive feature. - Despite its tiny stature, it...