Koepcke's Hermit

Peru

Jul 17

Koepcke’s Hermit (Phaethornis koepckeae)

Name Origin:
The genus Phaethornis comes from Greek phaethōn meaning “radiant” or “shining” and ornis meaning “bird.” The species name koepckeae honors Maria Koepcke, a German-Peruvian ornithologist who contributed extensively to the study of Peruvian birds.

Quick Facts

🪶 Length: 14–15 cm (5.5–5.9 in)
⚖️ Weight: 4.5–5.8 g
🌎 Range: Endemic to eastern Andean foothills of Peru
🧭 Elevation: 450–1,300 m
🌸 Diet: Nectar and small arthropods
🏡 Habitat: Humid montane and foothill forest
🧬 Clade: Phaethornithinae “Hermits”
📊 Status: Least Concern (IUCN 2024)

Subspecies & Distribution

Monotypic — no subspecies recognized.

Species Overview

Koepcke’s Hermit is a range-restricted hummingbird found only in the eastern foothills of the Peruvian Andes. It prefers humid evergreen and montane forests where it forages in the shaded understory. The species is often identified by its duller tones and distinctive rufous rump. It is a trap-liner, moving in repeated foraging circuits and visiting low flowers.

Male Description:
Dark bronze-green upperparts with a rufous rump. The face shows a black mask bordered by thin white supercilium and malar stripes. Underparts are pale buff with a richer buff wash on the flanks. Tail feathers are dark with white-tipped central feathers and rufous outer feathers.

Female Description:
Similar to the male but generally duller, with less contrasting facial markings. Slightly paler underparts and similar tail pattern.

Habitat & Behavior:
Occurs in the lower to mid-levels of humid montane forest and foothill forest. Frequently found along ravines, stream edges, and dense understory. Uses a trap-lining foraging strategy and nests in hanging cups built under broad leaves or low overhangs. Often inconspicuous and quiet, rarely defending feeding territories.

Conservation Note:
While considered Least Concern, Koepcke’s Hermit has a narrow range and is sensitive to habitat destruction. Deforestation in the eastern Andes, especially for agriculture and infrastructure, poses a threat to its specialized habitat. Local populations benefit from protected forests in its range.