The sparkling violetear is a species of hummingbird widespread in highlands of northern and western South America, including a large part of the Andes, the Venezuelan Coastal Range, and the Tepuis. It occurs in a wide range of semi-open habitats, even in gardens and parks within major cities such as Quito, and is often the most common species of hummingbird in its range. It is highly vocal and territorial.
Region
Andes Mountains and adjacent northern South American highlands
Typical Environment
Found from Venezuela and Colombia south through Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia, locally reaching northern Argentina and Chile. It inhabits semi-open highland habitats including forest edges, montane shrublands, páramo margins, clearings, and urban parks and gardens. Frequently one of the most common hummingbirds in Andean cities such as Quito and La Paz. It tolerates human presence and readily uses ornamental plantings with abundant flowers.
Altitude Range
1200–4200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This large hummingbird is famously common in Andean cities and highland gardens, where it vigorously defends flower patches from other hummingbirds. Both sexes look similar and flash vivid violet ear patches when agitated or displaying. It often supplements nectar with small insects caught in midair and makes persistent, metallic calls throughout the day.
Temperament
highly territorial and aggressive
Flight Pattern
hovering with rapid wingbeats; agile and strong flier
Social Behavior
Usually solitary around feeding territories, which individuals defend vigorously against other hummingbirds. Nests are small cups built from plant down and spider silk on horizontal branches or human structures. Typical clutch is two white eggs and both nesting and feeding can occur close to human activity.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A loud, incessant series of metallic chips and buzzy trills delivered from exposed perches. Calls can continue for long periods and dominate the soundscape in urban parks. Agitated birds give sharper, rapidly repeated notes during chases.
