The Mérida flowerpiercer is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae. It is endemic to Venezuela.
Region
Venezuelan Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid montane and cloud forests, forest edges, elfin forest, and shrubby zones near the páramo ecotone. It is frequently seen in secondary growth and flower-rich gardens near forest margins. The species favors areas with abundant tubular flowers such as Fuchsia and Bomarea. It is typically found in the Mérida Cordillera and adjacent ranges within western Venezuela.
Altitude Range
1800–3500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Mérida flowerpiercer is a nectar-robbing tanager that pierces the base of tubular flowers to sip nectar, often bypassing pollination. Males are striking blue with a contrasting dark mask and a vivid red eye. It was formerly treated within the Masked Flowerpiercer complex but is now recognized as a distinct species endemic to the Venezuelan Andes. It readily joins mixed-species flocks along forest edges and gardens rich in flowers.
Temperament
active and moderately territorial around rich nectar sources
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile, darting movements
Social Behavior
Often forages singly or in pairs and frequently joins mixed-species flocks along forest edges. Territorial chases around flowering shrubs are common. Nesting is presumed cup-shaped in dense vegetation, with both parents participating in care, as in related Diglossa species.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of thin, high-pitched whistles and trills, interspersed with sharp call notes. Vocalizations carry well in montane forest edges and are used to maintain contact and defend feeding territories.
Plumage
Male is vivid cobalt to deep blue with a contrasting dark mask and glossy tones; female is duller bluish-slate to grayish with less contrast. Both sexes show compact plumage and a slightly hooked, fine bill adapted for piercing flowers.
Diet
Feeds primarily on nectar obtained by piercing the base of tubular flowers, often taking nectar without contacting the anthers. It supplements its diet with small insects and arthropods gleaned from foliage and flowers, and occasionally small berries. This flexible diet allows it to exploit seasonal flower and insect surges.
Preferred Environment
Forages in flowering shrubs, forest edge tangles, and garden plantings rich in tubular blooms. Frequently works mid-level to canopy-edge strata, moving rapidly between flower clusters.
