The green-backed firecrown is a hummingbird in the "coquettes", tribe Lesbiini of subfamily Lesbiinae. It is found in Argentina, mainland Chile, and the Juan Fernández Islands.
Region
Southern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs from central to southern Chile and adjacent western Argentina, reaching as far south as Tierra del Fuego, and also on the Juan Fernández Islands. It inhabits temperate evergreen and mixed forests, secondary growth, forest edges, and shrublands. The species adapts well to human-modified landscapes, frequenting gardens, orchards, and urban parks where flowering plants are abundant. Seasonal movements include altitudinal shifts and some latitudinal dispersal in winter to milder areas.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
One of the southernmost hummingbirds on Earth, the green-backed firecrown thrives in the cool temperate forests of Chile and Argentina. Males display a brilliant fiery-orange crown when excited, which gives the species its name. It readily visits gardens and urban parks, and on the Juan Fernández Islands it may compete with the endemic, rarer Juan Fernández firecrown.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile hovering and darting
Social Behavior
Typically solitary outside of breeding and strongly defends rich nectar sources against other hummingbirds. Courtship involves aerial chases and display flights; mating is promiscuous. The female builds a small cup nest of plant fibers and spider silk and alone incubates and raises the young.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Vocalizations are thin, high-pitched chips and rapid twittering notes, often given while foraging. The wing hum is prominent and can be heard at close range during hovering.
