The brown inca is a species of hummingbird in the "brilliants", tribe Heliantheini in subfamily Lesbiinae. It is found in Colombia and Ecuador.
Region
Northern Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs on humid Andean slopes from western and central Colombia south into northwestern Ecuador. It favors montane cloud forests, forest edges, and secondary growth with abundant tubular flowers. Birds often forage along shaded ravines, roadsides with flowering shrubs, and clearings near forest. They are typically local but can be fairly common where flowers are plentiful. They readily visit nectar feeders in suitable habitats.
Altitude Range
800–2400 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Brown Inca is a medium-sized hummingbird of Andean cloud forests, notable for its unusually uniform chocolate-brown plumage. Despite the dusky look, it shows striking bright white patches at the wing bend that flash in flight. It often defends flowering shrubs vigorously and will visit feeders in its range. Like many hummingbirds, it supplements nectar with tiny insects for protein.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile hovering
Social Behavior
Typically forages alone and defends rich nectar sources against other hummingbirds. The female builds a small cup nest of plant fibers and moss, usually suspended on a horizontal branch or sheltered ledge. Clutches are typically two eggs, and the female alone incubates and cares for the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are thin, high-pitched chips and short twitters given during foraging or territorial chases. Wing hum is prominent at close range. Song per se is simple and intermittent rather than musical.
