The bluish flowerpiercer is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae. It is found in humid montane forest in Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Venezuela.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid montane and cloud forests from Venezuela and Colombia south through Ecuador and Peru to Bolivia. Favors forest edges, elfin forest, secondary growth, and shrubby clearings with abundant flowering plants. Also visits forest gaps, roadsides, and gardens near montane woodland. Often forages in midstory to canopy where tubular flowers are common. Local abundance can track seasonal flowering.
Altitude Range
1500–3500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Bluish flowerpiercers use a slender, slightly upturned, hooked bill to pierce the base of flowers and sip nectar, a behavior known as nectar robbing. They often join mixed-species flocks along Andean forest edges. They can be confused with the Masked Flowerpiercer, but lack the latter’s vivid red eye and deeper blue coloration. Their movements are mostly local along elevational gradients following blooming shrubs.
Temperament
active and agile
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick dashes between perches
Social Behavior
Typically seen in pairs or small family groups and frequently joins mixed-species flocks along forest edges. During breeding, pairs defend small territories around flowering shrubs and nest sites. Nests are cup-shaped and placed in dense vegetation; clutches are small, commonly two eggs.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of thin, high, sibilant notes and brief trills delivered from concealed perches. Calls include sharp, metallic tiks and high tseet notes used in contact and alarm. Vocalizations are penetrating but not loud, often blending into the ambient forest sounds.
