The rufous-webbed brilliant is a species of hummingbird in the "brilliants", tribe Heliantheini in subfamily Lesbiinae. It is endemic to Peru.
Region
Eastern Andean foothills of Peru
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid and submontane cloud forests, especially at edges, gaps, and along ravines and stream corridors where flowering trees and epiphytes are abundant. It frequents mid-level to subcanopy strata and often visits gardens or second growth near forest. The species is closely tied to areas with dense understory and rich epiphyte loads, including bromeliads. It will also use regenerating forest with adequate floral resources.
Altitude Range
600–1800 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The rufous-webbed brilliant is a medium-sized hummingbird known for the warm rufous tint on the flight feathers that gives the species its name. It favors humid foothill and montane forests on the eastern Andean slopes of Peru and is typically seen at forest edges and along streams. Males defend rich flower patches aggressively, while females handle nest building and care.
Temperament
territorial and assertive at flower patches
Flight Pattern
rapid wingbeats with precise hovering and short darts between perches
Social Behavior
Generally solitary outside of breeding, with males vigorously defending nectar-rich shrubs and trees. Nests are small cup-shaped structures placed on horizontal branches, often decorated with moss and lichens. Courtship involves aerial chases and display flights near favored feeding sites.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are high, thin chips and short metallic trills delivered from semi-concealed perches. Wing noise may add a faint buzzy undertone during hovering.
