Longuemare's sunangel is a species of hummingbird in the "coquettes", tribe Lesbiini of subfamily Lesbiinae. It is found in Colombia and Venezuela.
Region
Northern Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs in the Andes of northeastern Colombia and western Venezuela, especially along humid montane forest edges, clearings with flowering shrubs, and elfin forest. It frequents the transition to páramo where bushes and low trees provide abundant blooms. Individuals are often seen in semi-open habitats, along roadsides, and in secondary growth. Local upslope and downslope movements may follow seasonal flower availability.
Altitude Range
1800–3400 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Longuemare's sunangel is a small Andean hummingbird that patrols flowering shrubs and vigorously defends nectar sources. It inhabits montane forest edges and elfin scrub, often near the páramo ecotone. Like many hummingbirds, it supplements nectar with tiny arthropods for protein. It is generally considered of low conservation concern across its limited but fairly widespread Andean range.
Temperament
territorial and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile hovering
Social Behavior
Typically solitary at flowers and strongly territorial, chasing away other hummingbirds from preferred blooms. The female builds a small cup nest of plant fibers and moss, often on a horizontal branch or twig. Clutches usually contain two eggs, and the female undertakes incubation and most care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are high, thin chips and rapid metallic trills delivered from low perches near feeding sites. During chases, it emits sharp chatters and squeaky notes.
Plumage
Compact hummingbird with mostly iridescent green upperparts, a glittering gorget, and a contrasting narrow white pectoral band separating throat and breast. Underparts below the band are darker green with warmer tones on the belly and undertail coverts. Tail is dusky greenish with slight fork.
Diet
Primarily consumes nectar from tubular flowers, including shrubs and small trees typical of Andean cloud forests and elfin scrub. Feeds from flowers of Ericaceae, Melastomataceae, and other montane plants. Also gleans or hawks tiny insects and spiders to obtain protein, especially during breeding.
Preferred Environment
Forages along forest edges, clearings, and roadside flower patches where blossoms are abundant. Often returns repeatedly to productive shrubs and defends them from rivals.
