Colibri coruscans
The Sparkling Violetear, Colibri coruscans, is a robust and highly iridescent hummingbird known for its vibrant plumage and assertive demeanor. Measuring about 13-14 cm (5.1-5.5 inches) in length and weighing 7.7-8.7 grams (0.27-0.31 oz), it boasts a striking overall dark iridescent green body, with its namesake deep violet-blue ear patches extending from behind the eye to the sides of the neck. A prominent, broad violet-blue band stretches across its upper breast, contrasting with a smaller,...
This adaptable hummingbird primarily inhabits humid montane forests, cloud forest edges, shrubby clearings, paramo, puna, and human-modified environments like gardens and plantations. It is typically found at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 4,500 meters (5,000 to 14,800 feet), though occasionall...
The primary diet consists of nectar from a wide variety of flowering plants, supplemented by small insects and spiders caught in flight or gleaned from foliage.
Sparkling Violetears are diurnal and highly active, often perching conspicuously on exposed branches or power lines. They are intensely territorial, with males vigorously defending prime feeding territories, engaging in aggressive aerial chases and vocalizing loudly to deter intruders, including ...
The Sparkling Violetear is a resident species found throughout the Andes mountains of South America, from northern Venezuela south through Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia, extending into northwest Argentina. It also inhabits the coastal mountains of northern Venezuela (Cordillera de la Costa...
Least Concern
- The Sparkling Violetear is one of the largest species within the 'violetear' genus, Colibri. - Despite its preference for high altitudes, it's a frequent visitor to urban gardens and feeders throughout its range, showing remarkable adaptability. - Its iridescent violet ear patches and breast ba...