Shining Sunbeam

Colombia

Jul 17

Shining Sunbeam (Aglaeactis cupripennis)

Name Origin:
The genus Aglaeactis is derived from Greek aglaia meaning “splendor” and aktis meaning “ray,” referring to the bird’s iridescent plumage. The species name cupripennis means “copper-winged” in Latin, describing the bird’s rich bronze coloration.

Quick Facts

🪶 Length: 12–13.5 cm (4.7–5.3 in)
⚖️ Weight: ~6.0–7.5 g (0.21–0.26 oz)
🌎 Range: Andes from Colombia to central Peru
🧭 Elevation: 2,300–4,500 m (7,500–14,760 ft)
🌸 Diet: Nectar and small insects
🏡 Habitat: High-elevation forest, elfin forest, and páramo edge
🧬 Clade: Heliantheini (“Brilliants”)
📊 Status: Least Concern (IUCN 2024)

Subspecies & Distribution

Two subspecies:

Aglaeactis cupripennis cupripennis
Distribution: All three Andean ranges of Colombia, south through Ecuador and into northern Peru (south to La Libertad and, on the eastern slope, to northern Huánuco)
Aglaeactis cupripennis caumatonota
Distribution: Central and south-central Peru (southern La Libertad to Lima and, on the eastern slope, from southern Huánuco to Cuzco)

Species Overview

The Shining Sunbeam is a unique highland hummingbird, notable for its warm coppery plumage that contrasts with the bright greens and blues of most hummingbirds. It is often found in treeline habitats and high-elevation forests, where it perches conspicuously or forages low among shrubs and flowering trees.

Male Description:
Dark coppery upperparts with a violet sheen on the rump, pale golden-buff throat and belly, and a straight black bill. The wings are dusky, often with a rufous wash, and the tail is slightly forked.

Female Description:
Similar to male, but slightly duller with less iridescence and more mottled buff underparts.

Habitat & Behavior:
Found near treeline in elfin forests, shrubby páramo edges, and montane scrub, usually above 3,000 meters. Perches openly and feeds low on shrubs and small trees. Known for being aggressive at flowers despite its relatively large size. Frequently vocal with a scratchy, wheezy song.

Conservation Note:
Listed as Least Concern, the Shining Sunbeam occupies a broad elevational range and benefits from occurring in remote, highland habitats. While some regions face habitat pressure from agriculture and grazing, much of its range lies within protected areas or steep, undeveloped terrain. Populations are considered stable.

Below is the Shining Sunbeam (Aglaeactis cupripennis cupripennis)

Photographed at Hacienda El Bosque and Hotel Termales del Ruíz, Caldas, and Cerro Gualí, Tolima, Colombia

These individuals belong to the nominate subspecies cupripennis, which ranges throughout the Andes of Colombia, Ecuador, and northern Peru. It inhabits shrubby treeline forests, elfin woodland, and páramo edge between 2,800 and 4,500 meters. This subspecies is richly copper-toned with a contrasting pale buff underside and shows violet iridescence on the rump in good light.