Dusky Starfrontlet
Common name: Dusky Starfrontlet
Scientific name: Coeligena orina
Clades: Heliantheini - Brilliants
A mysterious jewel of the Colombian Andes, the Dusky Starfrontlet is a rare and endangered hummingbird endemic to the Western Andes of Colombia, primarily within the departments of Antioquia and Risaralda. Measuring 11 to 12 cm (4.3 to 4.7 in) and weighing approximately 5 to 6.5 grams (0.18 to 0.23 oz), this highland species is known for its elusive behavior, limited range, and long history of scientific obscurity.
Male Description:
The male displays dark, velvety green upperparts with a rich bluish or violet gorget, a dusky greenish crown, and bronzy sides and flanks. His tail is dark and slightly forked, and the black bill is long and straight. Under certain lighting, the throat shimmers with a glittering iridescence—giving rise to its alternate name, the Glittering Starfrontlet.
Female Description:
Females are less iridescent, with paler green upperparts and grayish or buffy underparts, sometimes showing faint green spotting. The throat patch is reduced or absent, and the overall plumage is more matte. Tail shape and bill structure are similar to the male’s.
Habitat & Behavior:
This species inhabits humid montane forests and forest edges, typically between 2,800 and 3,200 meters (9,185 to 10,500 feet). It is generally found in very restricted cloud forest patches, often in remote and difficult-to-access terrain. It feeds on nectar and insects, foraging quietly along the forest midstory and edge vegetation.
Conservation Note:
Once considered possibly extinct, the Dusky Starfrontlet was rediscovered in 2004 after more than 50 years without a confirmed sighting. It is now listed as Endangered by the IUCN due to its extremely limited range and ongoing habitat loss. The species is currently known from just a few localities, with key populations occurring within the Reserva Natural de las Orquídeas and adjacent protected areas. Urgent conservation efforts are focused on forest protection, research, and preventing further habitat fragmentation in the Western Andes.