The emerald-bellied puffleg is a species of hummingbird in the "brilliants", tribe Heliantheini in the subfamily Lesbiinae. It is found in Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
Region
Northern Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid montane forests, forest edges, and shrubby clearings of the Andes in Colombia, Ecuador, and northern Peru. It frequents flower-rich edges, secondary growth, and landslides or roadcuts where tubular blossoms are abundant. The species also uses mossy elfin forest and forested ravines. It tolerates some disturbance if nectar sources remain available.
Altitude Range
1200–3200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The emerald-bellied puffleg is a small Andean hummingbird of cloud forests and edges, named for its vivid green underparts. Like other pufflegs, it sports conspicuous white feather “pom-poms” over the legs. It often defends rich flowering patches but may also follow a traplining route between blooms. Local elevational movements can occur as flowers peak at different heights.
Temperament
territorial around rich flower patches, otherwise unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile hovering
Social Behavior
Generally solitary at flowers, with males defending small feeding territories when blooms are concentrated. Nest is a tiny cup of plant fibers and moss bound with spider silk, typically placed on a sheltered branch or root. Clutch is usually two white eggs, with incubation by the female.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are high, thin chips and short rattling trills given during feeding or brief chases. Wing hum is soft but audible at close range. Song per se is simple, delivered in short, high-pitched sequences.
