Perijá Metaltail

Common name: Perijá Metaltail
Scientific name: Metallura iracunda
Clades: Lesbiini - Coquettes

A fierce highland specialist, the Perijá Metaltail is endemic to the Serranía del Perijá, a rugged mountain range along the Colombia–Venezuela border. Measuring 10 to 11 cm (3.9 to 4.3 in) and weighing 4.5 to 5.5 grams (0.16 to 0.19 oz), this compact hummingbird is known for its fiery gorget, high-altitude lifestyle, and isolated range. It is currently listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List.

Male Description:
The male features dark, velvety green plumage with a fiery reddish-golden gorget (throat patch) that flashes in direct light. His tail is short, square, and metallic bronze or coppery, contrasting with the darker body. The straight black bill and overall chunky build reflect his high-altitude adaptations. His posture and coloration give him an assertive presence among montane shrubs.

Female Description:
The female is similar but slightly duller, with less iridescent throat coloration—often appearing dark or with a faint bronzy sheen. She has pale buff scaling or spotting on the throat and lighter underparts overall. Her tail is shaped similarly to the male’s, though sometimes with paler edging.

Habitat & Behavior:
This species is restricted to humid elfin forests, shrublands, and páramo edges at elevations ranging from 2,600 to 3,300 meters (8,530 to 10,830 feet). It forages low to the ground on native flowering plants and also gleans insects from vegetation. Though small, it is often territorial and aggressive, particularly near nectar-rich shrubs.

Conservation Note:
The Perijá Metaltail faces ongoing habitat loss due to agricultural expansion, grazing, and road construction. It is classified as Near Threatened due to its small, fragmented population and declining habitat. Conservation efforts in the Serranía del Perijá, including increased protected area coverage and habitat restoration, are vital to securing the future of this highland hummingbird.