The Peruvian piedtail, locally called Colibrí Colipinto Peruano, is a species of hummingbird in the "coquettes", tribe Lesbiini of subfamily Lesbiinae. It is endemic to Peru.
Region
Eastern Andean foothills of Peru
Typical Environment
Occurs locally along the east slope of the central Peruvian Andes in humid foothill and lower montane forests. It favors forest edges, riparian thickets, bamboo and secondary growth with abundant flowering shrubs. Birds often use sheltered ravines and stream corridors where nectar plants are concentrated. It is patchy and local but can be fairly common where habitat is suitable.
Altitude Range
600–1700 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Peruvian piedtail is one of only two species in the genus Phlogophilus and is restricted to the eastern Andean foothills of Peru. It is a small hummingbird that often keeps low in forest edge and second-growth understory, where its tail’s bold white patches are conspicuous in flight. Like most hummingbirds it defends rich nectar sources aggressively despite its tiny size.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile hovering and darting
Social Behavior
Typically forages alone and defends flowering shrubs from other hummingbirds. Courtship involves chases and display flights by males. Nests are tiny cup nests placed on horizontal branches or streamside vegetation, using plant down and spider silk.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are thin, high-pitched tseet notes given sporadically while foraging. It also emits faint trills and chips during interactions around nectar sources.
