The royal sunangel is an endangered species of hummingbird in the "coquettes", tribe Lesbiini of subfamily Lesbiinae. It is found in Ecuador and Peru.
Region
Eastern Andes (Ecuador and northern Peru)
Typical Environment
Found along humid montane cloud forests on the eastern slopes of the Andes, primarily in northern Peru and adjacent southeastern Ecuador. It favors edges, gaps, and shrubby clearings within mossy forest, often near steep ravines and streams. The species frequents patches of flowering shrubs and small trees, including melastomes and fuchsias. It tolerates some secondary growth but depends on intact cloud-forest structure and a steady supply of nectar.
Altitude Range
1400–2200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The royal sunangel is a striking Andean hummingbird, with males showing a deep, iridescent royal-blue to violet sheen that gives the species its name. It occupies a very small range on the east Andean slope of Ecuador and Peru, where it is threatened by habitat loss from deforestation and mining. Individuals often defend rich flowering shrubs with surprising vigor, chasing away other hummingbirds.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile hovering
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly, actively defending nectar resources against other hummingbirds. During breeding, males display at favored perches, while females build a tiny cup nest of plant fibers and moss bound with spider silk. The female alone incubates and tends the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are high, thin chips and buzzy trills delivered from exposed perches. The calls are often interspersed with audible wing hums during territorial chases.
