The bronze-tailed comet is a species of hummingbird in the "coquettes", tribe Lesbiini of subfamily Lesbiinae. It is endemic to Peru.
Region
Peruvian Andes
Typical Environment
The bronze-tailed comet occurs in dry intermontane valleys and scrubby slopes of the central Peruvian Andes, especially in Ayacucho, Apurímac, and adjacent departments. It favors rocky ravines, arid shrublands, and edges of stunted woodlands such as Polylepis. Birds often concentrate near flowering shrubs and along watercourses where nectar resources are reliable. It is patchily distributed, tracking seasonal blooms across a fragmented landscape.
Altitude Range
2500–3800 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This high-Andean hummingbird is known for the male’s strikingly long, bronzy, deeply forked tail that flashes in display flights. It inhabits arid intermontane valleys of central Peru and relies heavily on nectar from native shrubs and bromeliads. Ongoing habitat loss from agriculture and firewood collection threatens its already localized populations.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
rapid wingbeats with agile hovering and short darting flights
Social Behavior
Typically encountered alone, vigorously defending rich nectar sources from other hummingbirds. Courtship involves fast chases and display flights accentuating the male’s long tail. Nests are small cup structures of plant down and spider silk placed on sheltered branches or ledges.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are thin, high-pitched chips and twitters, intensifying during aggressive encounters. Display flights are accompanied by rapid, buzzy notes and mechanical wing or tail sounds near flowers.
