The viridian metaltail is a species of hummingbird in the "coquettes", tribe Lesbiini of subfamily Lesbiinae. It is found in Colombia and Ecuador.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs along the Andes of southern Colombia and northern Ecuador, favoring elfin forest edges, high-montane shrublands, and páramo ecotones. It frequents flowering shrubs on steep slopes, ravines, and hedgerows near forest fragments. The species uses both natural páramo vegetation and disturbed edges where nectar sources persist. It defends rich flowering patches but may also follow routes between scattered blooms.
Altitude Range
2200–4100 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This high-Andean hummingbird takes its name from the male’s iridescent, metallic-looking tail. It often enters nightly torpor to conserve energy in cold montane habitats. By visiting tubular flowers, it is an important pollinator of páramo and cloud-forest plants. It typically remains year-round within its elevational band.
Temperament
territorial around rich nectar sources
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile hovering
Social Behavior
Typically solitary at flowers, with males aggressively defending feeding territories. Courtship involves aerial chases and display hovering. The female builds a small cup nest, usually placed on protected branches or banks, and incubates two eggs with little male assistance.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are high, thin tseet notes and rapid, insect-like trills delivered from low perches. Wing hum is audible at close range, especially during display chases.
