The moustached flowerpiercer is a species of bird in the family Thraupidae. It was first described by French ornithologist Frédéric de Lafresnaye in 1846. It is found in Bolivia and Peru. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist montane forests, subtropical or tropical high-altitude grassland, and heavily degraded former forest.
Region
Central Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs along the Andes of Peru and western Bolivia, favoring humid montane forests, elfin forest, and shrubby edges. It is frequently found in ecotones, second growth, and Polylepis woodlands, and it will use hedgerows and degraded forest with abundant flowering shrubs. The species ventures into high-altitude grasslands where shrubby patches or flowering plants are available. It is largely sedentary within its elevational band but may make short local movements following blooms.
Altitude Range
2500–4000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The moustached flowerpiercer uses a short, slightly upturned bill with a hooked tip to pierce the base of flowers and steal nectar, often without pollinating the plant. It also supplements its diet with small insects and berries, making it an adaptable high-Andean forager. The species shows a distinctive pale 'moustachial' stripe on a darker face, aiding quick identification. It was first described by Frédéric de Lafresnaye in 1846.
Moustached flowerpiercer (Diglossa mystacalis)
Temperament
active and moderately territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick darting flights between shrubs
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, but often associates with mixed-species flocks while foraging in the canopy and edge. Pairs defend rich flowering patches during the breeding season. Nests are small cups placed low to mid-level in dense shrubs, and both parents typically feed the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a thin, high-pitched series of tinkling notes and short warbles. Calls include sharp metallic chips and sibilant tseet sounds, delivered frequently while foraging.
Plumage
Mostly dark slaty to blackish with a contrasting pale moustachial stripe on the face; underparts slightly paler gray on some individuals. Feathers appear smooth and close-packed, giving a sleek look. The bill is short, slightly upturned, and hooked at the tip.
Diet
Primarily takes nectar by piercing the base of tubular flowers, a technique that bypasses the corolla. It also gleans small insects and spiders from foliage and occasionally hawks for aerial prey. Berries and small fruits are eaten when available, especially outside peak flowering periods.
Preferred Environment
Feeds along forest edges, in flowering shrubs of elfin forest, and in Polylepis stands. Common at disturbed edges, hedgerows, and secondary growth where blooms are concentrated.
