Fiery Topaz
Common name: Fiery Topaz
Scientific name: Topaza pyra
Clades: Florisuginae - Topazes
A true avian spectacle, the Fiery Topaz inhabits the upper Amazon Basin, ranging through southern Colombia, eastern Ecuador and Peru, northern Bolivia, and western Brazil. This spectacular species rivals its close relative, the Crimson Topaz, in brilliance and grandeur. Measuring 21 to 23 cm (8.3 to 9 in) in length (including its elongated tail) and weighing 9 to 11 grams (0.32 to 0.39 oz), it is one of the largest and heaviest hummingbirds.
Male Description:
The male Fiery Topaz dazzles with intense iridescence. His head and throat shimmer with emerald green, while the breast and belly blaze with fiery reddish-orange tones, which give the species its common name. The back and flanks show rich bronze or golden hues. Most dramatic is his long, deeply forked tail—bronze with fiery orange central streamers extending gracefully behind him. The straight, black bill completes his striking profile.
Female Description:
Females are smaller and much subtler in coloration. They lack the elongated tail streamers and display mostly metallic green upperparts with pale or buffy underparts that may show faint spotting. Their tails are shorter with white-tipped outer feathers, and their bills are slightly decurved. Though less flamboyant, females retain an understated elegance.
Habitat & Behavior:
Preferring humid lowland rainforests, especially near rivers and tall flowering trees, the Fiery Topaz is a canopy dweller. Males perform dynamic aerial displays to court females and defend feeding territories. Although it remains widespread in remote regions, this species depends heavily on intact Amazonian forests, making ongoing habitat conservation vital.
2 subspecies:
T. p. amaruni
Distribution E Ecuador and NE Peru (Loreto, Ucayali).T. p. pyra
Distribution S Venezuela (Amazonas), SE Colombia and NW Brazil.
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