The black-bellied thorntail is a species of hummingbird in the "coquettes", tribe Lesbiini of subfamily Lesbiinae. It is found in Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela.
Region
Amazon Basin
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland rainforest across much of the western and central Amazon, including terra firme and seasonally flooded várzea forests. Most frequently seen along forest edges, river islands, clearings, and in the canopy where flowering trees are abundant. It also uses second-growth and riparian corridors and may visit gardens near intact forest. Activity is concentrated where nectar sources bloom, and it can shift locally as flowers peak.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This tiny hummingbird is named for the male’s extraordinary outer tail feathers, which are wire-like with thorny tips and often longer than the body. It typically forages high in the canopy and along forest edges, visiting a circuit of favorite flowering trees. Like many coquettes and thorntails, males perform swift aerial displays to attract females. It helps pollinate a variety of Amazonian plants while also gleaning tiny insects for protein.
Female in Colombia
Temperament
active and agile
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with hovering and darting sallies
Social Behavior
Generally solitary at flowers but tolerant of other hummingbirds at rich nectar sources, where brief chases are common. Males display in aerial bouts and may use small leks near favored flowering trees. The nest is a tiny cup placed on a slender horizontal twig; the female builds, incubates, and cares for the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are high, thin tseet notes and rapid chips given during foraging and chases. Wings produce a soft mechanical buzz in close flight. Males add rapid, high-pitched series during display flights.
