The Santa Marta sabrewing is a Critically Endangered species of hummingbird in the "emeralds", tribe Trochilini of subfamily Trochilinae. It is endemic to the Guatapurí dry enclave on the eastern side of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, department of Cesar, northern Colombia. It is one of 24 bird species that are endemic to the Santa Marta highlands.
Region
Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta
Typical Environment
Endemic to the eastern slopes of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, primarily in and around the Guatapurí dry enclave. It uses humid ravines, forest edges, riparian thickets, and tall secondary growth within a generally drier montane matrix. Flower-rich scrub and ecotones between dry and moist forest are especially important. It may occasionally visit shaded agroforestry plots with abundant flowering plants.
Altitude Range
1200–1800 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This large hummingbird is one of the rarest in the world and is confined to the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta of northern Colombia. It was long missing from records and was dramatically re-confirmed with photographs in 2022 after more than a decade without sightings. Habitat loss in its tiny range is the principal threat, making local conservation actions critical.
A male, illustrated by J. G. Keulemans.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile hovering and swift darting between flowers
Social Behavior
Individuals typically defend rich flower patches and chase intruders vigorously. Courtship involves aerial chases and display flights from prominent perches. Nests are small cups placed on horizontal branches or over streams, lined with soft plant material and spider silk.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Mostly quiet; gives sharp, metallic chips and thin tseet notes. Males also produce short buzzy trills and dry chatters during display or territorial encounters.
