The Andean emerald is a species of hummingbird in the "emeralds", tribe Trochilini of subfamily Trochilinae. It is found in Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
Region
Northern Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs on the slopes and inter-Andean valleys of Colombia, Ecuador, and northern Peru. It favors forest edges, second growth, coffee plantations, gardens, and shrubby clearings with abundant flowering plants. The species frequents both humid and semi-humid montane environments and can adapt to human-altered landscapes. Along the Pacific slope and interior valleys, it follows seasonal flower availability while remaining locally common.
Altitude Range
300–2600 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Andean emerald is a small hummingbird of the Northern Andes, commonly visiting garden feeders and flowering shrubs. Males and females look quite similar, with subtle differences in sheen and tail pattern. It often defends rich nectar sources aggressively despite its tiny size. Formerly placed in the genus Amazilia, it is now commonly treated as Uranomitra.
Temperament
active and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with precise hovering
Social Behavior
Typically solitary at flowers, with males defending small feeding territories against other hummingbirds. Courtship involves rapid chases and display flights. The nest is a small cup of plant fibers and spider silk placed on horizontal branches; the female incubates two eggs and cares for the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are high, thin chips and rapid twitters given during chases or while perched. The wing hum is prominent at close range and often advertises a bird’s presence near flowering patches.
Plumage
Shimmering green upperparts with a glittering green throat and breast, contrasting with a clean whitish to pale gray belly. Tail is green to bluish-green, slightly forked, often with darker tips. Overall appearance is that of a classic 'emerald' hummingbird with sleek, iridescent plumage.
Diet
Primarily feeds on nectar from a variety of tubular and brushy flowers, including shrubs, vines, and epiphytes. Supplements its diet with small insects and spiders for protein, captured by hawking or gleaning. Tracks blooming cycles locally and may shift among flowering trees and garden feeders as resources change.
Preferred Environment
Forages along forest edges, clearings, secondary growth, and cultivated areas with ornamental flowers. Frequently visits gardens and coffee farms where flowering hedges and trees are present.
