The rufous-capped thornbill is a species of hummingbird in the "coquettes", tribe Lesbiini of subfamily Lesbiinae. It is found in Bolivia, Ecuador, and Peru.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs on the east Andean slopes of Ecuador, Peru, and northern Bolivia, primarily in montane cloud forest edges, elfin forest, and high shrublands. It regularly uses Polylepis woodland and páramo scrub, where nectar resources are concentrated. Birds often follow a trapline between flowering shrubs and small trees. It tolerates forest edges and clearings but is most frequent in intact high-elevation habitats.
Altitude Range
2000–4200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A small high-Andean hummingbird, the rufous-capped thornbill is named for its distinctive rusty crown. It favors elfin forests, Polylepis woodland, and shrubby páramo, where it defends rich flower patches. Like many hummingbirds, it supplements nectar with tiny insects for protein. Its short, straight bill and rapid, agile flight help it exploit small tubular flowers at high elevations.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile hovering and darting sallies
Social Behavior
Generally solitary at flowers, where individuals defend productive shrubs against other hummingbirds. Courtship involves rapid chases and display flights. Nesting is by the female, which builds a small cup nest and cares for the young alone.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives high, thin chips and short buzzy trills, often while perched between foraging bouts. Wing hum is pronounced at close range. Vocalizations are brief and repeated, serving mainly as contact and territorial calls.
Plumage
Bronzy-green upperparts with a slightly duller green to grayish underparts and a distinct rufous crown. Wings are dusky with a metallic sheen; tail is dark with subtle gloss. Feathers are tight and compact, typical of small hummingbirds.
Diet
Feeds primarily on nectar from small tubular flowers of high-Andean shrubs and trees, including those in cloud forest and páramo. It practices traplining, visiting a sequence of blooms, and will also defend rich flower patches. Insects and spiders are taken by hawking from perches or gleaning foliage to provide essential proteins, especially during breeding.
Preferred Environment
Flowering shrubs along forest edges, clearings, and elfin forest understory. Often visits Polylepis and páramo scrub where nectar is concentrated and accessible.
