Lesser Violetear
Common name: Lesser Violetear
Scientific name: Colibri cyanotus
Clades: Polytminae - Mangoes
The Lesser Violetear averages around 9.7 to 12 cm (3.8 to 4.7 in) in total length. Its bill is black and mostly straight with only a slight downward curve and measures from 1.8 to 2.5 cm (0.71 to 0.98 in). The body mass can vary from 4.8 to 5.6 g (0.17 to 0.20 oz). Among standard measurements, the wing chord is 5.8 to 6.8 cm (2.3 to 2.7 in) and the tail is 3.5 to 4.3 cm (1.4 to 1.7 in).
The Lesser Violetear, a medium-sized hummingbird, is a sight to behold with its distinct features. Its iridescent green body is complemented by a striking blue or purple cheek patch, creating an enchanting visual contrast. Notably, the bill exhibits a slight decurvature, adding to its unique allure. Both males and females share these remarkable characteristics, making them equally captivating.
3 subspecies:
Lesser Violetear (Costa Rican)
C. c. cabanidis
Distribution mountains of Costa Rica and W Panama.
Lesser Violetear (Andean)
2. C. c. cyanotus
Distribution Mountains of Colombia, Venezuela and Ecuador.
3. C. c. crissalis
Distribution E slope of Andes of Peru and Bolivia (to W Santa Cruz). Recorded also in NW Argentina (Tucumán).
taken in Costa Rica
taken in Colombia
taken in Peru
