Birds
File:Heliactin bilophus - ....Christopher Borges.... - 356638945.jpeg

Horned Sungem

Horned Sungem

100
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Not yet spotted on Fladder
Spotted
The Horned Sungem is an astonishingly beautiful and unique hummingbird, famed for the two prominent, iridescent 'horns' on the male's head. It is a jewel of the cerrado and open woodlands of South America.
Where to spot
Endemic to the cerrado biome and open woodlands of central-eastern Brazil, extending into parts of Bolivia and Paraguay. Prefers open grasslands with scattered trees and shrubs.
How to spot
Look for it in its preferred open habitat. The male's distinctive horns are unmistakable. Females are plainer but still striking. They often perch on low, exposed branches and dart rapidly to flowers. Patience and good light are essential to appreciate their full splendor.
When to spot
Year-round, but most conspicuous during breeding season (typically dry season) when males display. Active throughout the day, especially mornings and late afternoons.
File:Heliactin bilophus - ....Christopher Borges.... - 356638945.jpeg
File:Heliactin bilophus - NHML 1.jpg
File:Heliactin bilophus 110196831.jpg
File:Heliactin bilophus 332892073.jpg
File:Heliactin bilophus 348331475.jpg
File:Heliactin bilophus 348331515.jpg
File:Heliactin bilophus 348331518.jpg
File:Heliactin bilophus 363243165.jpg
File:Heliactin bilophus - ....Christopher Borges.... - 356638945.jpeg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Heliactin bilophus - NHML 1.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Heliactin bilophus 110196831.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Heliactin bilophus 332892073.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Heliactin bilophus 348331475.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Heliactin bilophus 348331515.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Heliactin bilophus 348331518.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Heliactin bilophus 363243165.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
The male's 'horns' are not true horns but erectile feather tufts that catch the sunlight, creating dazzling flashes of green, blue, or red, primarily used in courtship displays.
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