Black-hooded sunbeam

The black-hooded sunbeam is a species of hummingbird in the "brilliants", tribe Heliantheini in subfamily Lesbiinae. It is endemic to Bolivia.

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Distribution

Region

Bolivian Andes

Typical Environment

Occurs on steep Andean slopes, canyon scrub, and edges of montane and Polylepis woodlands. It uses hedgerows, ravines, and semi-open patches with abundant tubular flowers. Birds often patrol flowering shrubs along forest margins and in high Andean scrub mosaics. It may venture into human-modified areas where native shrubs persist.

Altitude Range

2500–4000 m

Climate Zone

Highland

Characteristics

Size12–14 cm

Wing Span16–18 cm

Male Weight0.007 kg

Female Weight0.0065 kg

Life Expectancy6 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

This striking hummingbird is restricted to the Bolivian Andes, where it favors high-elevation scrub and woodland edges. Its velvety black hood contrasts with gleaming iridescence and a pale rump that flashes in flight, inspiring the name “sunbeam.” It is an important pollinator of Andean flowering shrubs and is strongly territorial around rich nectar sources.

Gallery

Behaviour

Temperament

solitary and territorial

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with precise hovering

Social Behavior

Generally solitary away from breeding, defending rich flower patches vigorously against other hummingbirds. Courtship involves chases and display flights; males do not assist with nesting. Females build small cup nests from plant down and spider silk, placed on sheltered branches or ledges.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Vocalizations are thin, high-pitched chips and tseep notes, often given during territorial chases. Wing hum is pronounced at close range, and display flights may include rapid buzzes.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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