The western emerald is a species of hummingbird in the "emeralds", tribe Trochilini of subfamily Trochilinae. It is found in Colombia and Ecuador.
Region
Northern Andes
Typical Environment
Found on the Pacific and Andean slopes of western Colombia and northwestern Ecuador. It favors semi-open habitats including forest edges, clearings, coffee and cacao plantations, and rural gardens. The species readily visits flowering shrubs and ornamental plantings in towns and villages. It often coexists with other hummingbirds but defends rich nectar sources vigorously.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The western emerald is a small hummingbird of the Northern Andes, where it frequents forest edges, gardens, and second-growth. Males are a brilliant emerald green with a bluish tail, while females show grayish underparts with a bold white post-ocular stripe. Its name melanorhynchus refers to its typically dark, nearly black bill, suited for probing tubular flowers.
Temperament
territorial and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with hovering
Social Behavior
Generally solitary at flowers, with males defending small feeding territories against other hummingbirds. Nests are tiny cups of plant fibers and spider silk placed on horizontal branches or in shrubs. Typical clutch is two white eggs, with the female handling incubation and chick rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are high, thin tseet and chip notes given from low perches or while foraging. Wing hum is prominent at close range, and males may give rapid buzzy trills during brief chases.
