H4_W6C_003

Date: May-22

Location: Ecuador

Did you know?

The Empress Brilliant Hummingbird, scientifically known as Heliodoxa imperatrix, is a stunning bird species found in the cloud forests of Central and South America. It is a member of the hummingbird family and is known for its remarkable beauty. Empress Brilliant Hummingbirds are highly territorial and defend their feeding and breeding territories fiercely. They are agile fliers, capable of hovering in mid-air and performing impressive aerial displays to attract mates and deter intruders. Conservation efforts focused on preserving their cloud forest habitats and combatting deforestation are crucial for the survival of the Empress Brilliant Hummingbird. By protecting their natural environments and promoting sustainable land management practices, we can help ensure the continued presence of this exquisite hummingbird species in the forests of Central and South America.

About the picture

The Empress Brilliant Hummingbird is named for its regal appearance. The male has a deep, shimmering emerald green plumage on its upperparts, with a vibrant purple throat and breast. The female is slightly less colorful, with a greenish-bronze upperparts and a pale throat and breast. These hummingbirds primarily feed on nectar from a variety of flowering plants. They have a long, curved bill and a specialized tongue that allow them to extract nectar from deep within the flowers. They are also known to consume small insects and spiders for additional protein.

Fun Fact

The average weight of a hummingbird is less than a nickel.