Buff-tailed Coronet
| Buff-tailed Coronet | |
|---|---|
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Aves |
| Order: | Apodiformes |
| Family: | Trochilidae |
| Genus: | Boissonneaua |
| Species: | B. flavescens |
| Binomial name | |
| Boissonneaua flavescens (Loddiges, 1832) |
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Contents |
[edit] Introduction
The Buff-tailed Coronet, Boissonneaua flavescens, is a species of hummingbird from the family Trochilidea. It is found in Colombia, Ecuador, and Venezuela.Distinguishing characteristics are the short bill, glittering green coloration, and buffy color under the remiges (flight feathers) and rectrices (tail feathers). Like other hummingbirds, the buff-tailed coronet is often found in mid-level forest to canopy searching for flowers with nectar and some insects. This bird is commonly found from 1500–2400 meters above sea level.
[edit] Description
The buff-tailed coronet has only slight sexual dimorphism. The female is scaled with white feathers mostly throughout the chin and throat, and some on the belly. Prominent feather colorations are iridescent green with darker wing tips, and buffy hues under the wing and tail feathers. On the face, there is an obvious white post ocular spot on each side. Puffy white “boots” are present at the thighs, an orange tuft at the shoulder, and a short, dark bill. Average size for a buff-tailed coronet is 13.2-13.5 cm with a bill length of 1.8–2 cm. (Restall)
The buff-tailed coronet and Fawn-breasted Brilliant, Heliodoxa rubinoides, are commonly confused due to the similar posterior colorations. Yet, the Fawn-breasted Brilliant has more buff coloration on its breast and underbelly as the name suggests.
[edit] Vocalization
The male buff-tailed coronet has a vocalization that is a repetitive “chip” noise. This song is usually used when the bird is perched in open areas of the sub-canopy, being within suitable distance from other hummingbirds, though this song has also been recorded at feeders with multiple hummingbirds present. (Ridgely)
[edit] Distribution and Habitat
The buff-tailed coronet is exclusively found in South America, specifically in Colombia, Ecuador, and Venezuela. The typical habitat can range from the “subtropical zone to Paramo. Living in humid montane, wet, cloud and elfin forests to open fields with scattered bushes and trees” from 1500–2400 meters above sea level (Restall). While living in treetops, buff-tails can often be found lower in clearings with flowering plants.
[edit] Behavior
Often numerous when found in one location, buff-tailed coronets often share feeding areas with other hummingbirds, though not affectionately (Ridgely). It is one of the more aggressive hummingbird species. The buff-tailed will chase other hummingbirds from nectar sources and feeders. It also exhibits a wing display upon landing. The bird raises its wings, holds them in the air for a moment, then lowers them. When other hummers are present, it will raise and lower its wings in response to the other birds’ presence.
[edit] References
- Ridgely, R.S. (2001). The Birds of Ecuador (Field Guide), Volume II. Ithaca, NY: Cornell University Press, pg. 47 & 277.
- Restall, R. (Ed.). (2006). Birds of Northern South America, Volume II. New Haven & London, England: Yale University Press, pg. 262.
The Buff-tailed Coronet, Boissonneaua flavescens, is a species of hummingbird. It is found in Colombia, Mexico Ecuador, and Venezuela.
[edit] References
- BirdLife International (2004). Boissonneaua flavescens. 2006. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. IUCN 2006. www.iucnredlist.org. Retrieved on 17 December 2006. Database entry includes justification for why this species is of least concern.
