Blue-tailed Emerald
Blue-tailed Emerald
100
9 months ago
door
Sarah
Points:
100
The Glittering-bellied Emerald (*Chlorostilbon mellisugus*) is a stunning small hummingbird, aptly named for the iridescent golden-green sheen on its underside, particularly visible in males. It is a widespread and often abundant species.
Where to spot
Widely distributed across South America, primarily east of the Andes, from northern Colombia and Venezuela south to Argentina and Uruguay. Found in a variety of open and semi-open habitats, including gardens, parks, agricultural areas, and forest edges.
How to spot
Look for a small, metallic green hummingbird. Males have a distinct iridescent golden-green lower belly and a deeply forked tail. Females are duller, with a pale belly and a shorter, less forked tail. Listen for its high-pitched, sharp calls and observe its rapid, agile flight.
When to spot
Active year-round in its resident range. Most visible during morning and late afternoon when foraging for nectar, often at various flowering plants or feeders.
Where to spot
Widely distributed across South America, primarily east of the Andes, from northern Colombia and Venezuela south to Argentina and Uruguay. Found in a variety of open and semi-open habitats, including gardens, parks, agricultural areas, and forest edges.
How to spot
Look for a small, metallic green hummingbird. Males have a distinct iridescent golden-green lower belly and a deeply forked tail. Females are duller, with a pale belly and a shorter, less forked tail. Listen for its high-pitched, sharp calls and observe its rapid, agile flight.
When to spot
Active year-round in its resident range. Most visible during morning and late afternoon when foraging for nectar, often at various flowering plants or feeders.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
The 'glittering belly' of the male is not always visible but flashes brilliantly in good light, a key identifying feature and a marvel of natural iridescence that results from microscopic feather structures.
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