The flame-throated sunangel or little sunangel is a species of hummingbird in the "coquettes", tribe Lesbiini of subfamily Lesbiinae. It is found in Ecuador and Peru.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs on humid Andean slopes of Ecuador and northern Peru, primarily in cloud forest, elfin forest, and forest edge. It favors areas rich in flowering shrubs and small trees, including second growth and clearings. Often found along ravines, roadsides, and riparian thickets within montane forest mosaics. Locally common where suitable nectar sources are abundant.
Altitude Range
2000–3500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known as the little sunangel, this hummingbird flashes a fiery orange throat that can look dull until it catches the light. It often defends small patches of flowering shrubs and can be seen hovering methodically along forest edges. In some areas it visits gardens with abundant tubular flowers. Like many high-Andean hummers, it may shift elevation locally as blooms change through the year.
Painting by John Gould.
Temperament
active and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile hovering
Social Behavior
Typically solitary around feeding areas, with males vigorously defending nectar-rich shrubs. Courtship involves rapid chases and throat-flashing displays. The female builds a small cup nest, usually on a sheltered branch, and incubates two eggs with minimal help from the male.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are thin, high tsit and tsee notes delivered singly or in brief runs. Males give rapid chatter and chips when defending territories. Wing hum is audible at close range during hovering.
