The coppery metaltail is a species of hummingbird in the "coquettes", tribe Lesbiini of subfamily Lesbiinae. It is endemic to Peru.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
This species inhabits the northern Peruvian Andes, favoring high-elevation shrublands, elfin forest edges, and ravines with abundant flowering plants. It is often associated with Polylepis and other montane woodlands as well as rocky slopes with dense shrubs. The species uses ecotones where low trees meet open scrub, providing both nectar sources and cover. It is generally localized but can be common where suitable habitat persists.
Altitude Range
2800–4000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The coppery metaltail is a small hummingbird with a striking metallic bronze-copper sheen, found only in the high Andes of northern Peru. Males are notably territorial around nectar sources, often defending patches of flowers from other hummingbirds. It frequents elfin forest edges, montane scrub, and Polylepis stands, where it hovers to feed and also snatches tiny insects for protein.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile hovering
Social Behavior
Primarily solitary outside breeding, with males vigorously defending nectar-rich flower patches. Courtship involves aerial chases and displays near feeding territories. Nests are small cup structures placed on sheltered ledges or branches, and the female alone incubates and rears the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations consist of thin, high-pitched chips and rapid metallic trills delivered from perches or during brief chases. Calls are subtle but frequent around feeding areas, often interspersed with wing-buzz sounds.
Plumage
Compact hummingbird with glossy coppery-bronze upperparts and a metallic, slightly forked tail; underparts show bronzy to greenish iridescence. Females tend to have duller underparts with light speckling on the throat.
Diet
Feeds mainly on nectar from tubular flowers, visiting a circuit of blossoms and defending favored shrubs. Supplements diet with small insects and spiders captured by hawking or gleaning from foliage. Protein from arthropods is especially important during breeding.
Preferred Environment
Forages along edges of elfin forests, in montane scrub, and among flowering shrubs in rocky gullies. Often selects patches with continuous bloom and sheltered perches for short foraging sallies.
