The tepui goldenthroat is a species of hummingbird in the subfamily Polytminae, the mangoes. It is found in Brazil, Guyana, and Venezuela.
Region
Guiana Shield Tepuis
Typical Environment
Occurs on tepui slopes and adjacent highlands of southern Venezuela, western Guyana, and northern Brazil (Roraima). It favors shrubby tepui vegetation, white-sand heath and scrub, edges of montane forest, and open clearings with abundant flowers. It also visits gallery-forest margins and rocky outcrops where flowering shrubs and bromeliads are common. Local movements follow blooming cycles, but it is not known to undertake long migrations.
Altitude Range
600–1600 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The tepui goldenthroat is a highland hummingbird of the Guiana Shield, where it frequents shrublands and edges on and around tepui table-mountains. Males flash a brilliant golden-bronze throat that can appear dull until the light catches it at the right angle. It often perches conspicuously and defends rich flower patches. Though tied to highland habitats, it can use natural clearings and edges created by rock outcrops.
Temperament
active and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile hovering
Social Behavior
Typically solitary away from breeding, defending small nectar territories around flowering shrubs. Courtship involves aerial chases and display perching where the male shows the glittering throat. Nests are small cup structures placed on horizontal branches or sheltered forks, lined with soft plant fibers and camouflaged with lichens.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives thin, high-pitched tsee and tzip notes, often in rapid series around feeding sites. Wing hum is audible at close range, and males sometimes emit a soft buzzy trill during display flights.
