The buff-winged starfrontlet is a species of hummingbird in the "brilliants", tribe Heliantheini in subfamily Lesbiinae. It is found in Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
Region
Northern Andes
Typical Environment
Occupies humid montane cloud forests, forest edges, and elfin forests on the Andean slopes of Colombia, Ecuador, and northern Peru. It frequents shrubby clearings, secondary growth, and flower-rich ravines. The species also uses páramo fringes and high Andean scrub where nectar sources are abundant. It often forages along forest borders and in gardens or feeders near montane settlements.
Altitude Range
2000–4000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The buff-winged starfrontlet is a large Andean hummingbird noted for its conspicuous buff-colored wing patches and glittering forehead in males. It is an important pollinator of high-elevation flowers, often visiting tubular blossoms that few other birds can exploit. Though largely resident, it may shift elevation with seasonal flowering. It readily visits feeders in some areas of Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
Temperament
territorial around rich nectar sources
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile hovering
Social Behavior
Typically solitary or in loose proximity where flowers are dense. Males defend feeding territories vigorously against other hummingbirds. The female builds a small cup nest on sheltered ledges or branches and alone incubates and cares for the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are high, thin chips and short trills delivered during foraging or brief chases. Wing hum is pronounced in close flight, and display flights may include sharp, metallic notes.
