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.
Plumage
Iridescent emerald-green underparts with glossy green upperparts; typical fluffy white leg puffs contrast with darker thighs. Tail dark with a bronzy to bluish sheen, slightly notched. Females are a bit duller and may show lighter mottling below and a faint post-ocular spot.
Diet
Primarily nectar from tubular flowers of shrubs, vines, and epiphytes, including ericads and fuchsias. Supplements nectar with small arthropods caught by hawking or gleaning from foliage, providing essential protein. May follow a trapline circuit between reliable flowering plants when not holding a territory.
Preferred Environment
Feeds along forest edges, gaps, and secondary growth where sun-exposed flowers are plentiful. Also visits roadside banks, streamsides, and clearings with blooming shrubs. Occasionally ventures into gardens at suitable elevations.
