White-throated Hummingbird
White-throated Hummingbird (Leucochloris albicollis)
Name Origin:
The genus Leucochloris comes from Greek leukos (“white”) and chloros (“green”), referring to the bird’s white and green coloration. The species name albicollis is Latin for “white-necked,” pointing to its distinctive white throat patch.
Quick Facts
Length: 10–11 cm (3.9–4.3 in)
⚖️ Weight: ~4.5–5 g (0.16–0.18 oz)
🌎 Range: Southeastern Brazil, eastern Paraguay, northeastern Argentina, and Uruguay
🛍️ Elevation: Sea level up to 1,500 m (4,900 ft)
🌺 Diet: Nectar and small arthropods
🏡 Habitat: Forest edges, secondary growth, gardens, parks, and woodland clearings
🧬 Clade: Trochilini “Emeralds”
📊 Status: Least Concern (IUCN 2024)
Subspecies & Distribution
The White-throated Hummingbird is monotypic; no recognized subspecies.
Species Overview
The White-throated Hummingbird is a medium-sized, unmistakable emerald, instantly recognizable by its bold white throat and broad white band across the rump. This species is common and conspicuous in a variety of open and semi-open habitats across southeastern South America, from parks and gardens to natural woodland edges.
Male Description:
Males have vibrant green upperparts, a bright white throat, green underparts with a blue-green sheen, and a broad white rump band. The tail is dark blue with pale tips, and the bill is straight and black.
Female Description:
Females are similar to males but duller overall, with paler green upperparts and more grayish underparts. The throat remains white, but the blue sheen is less noticeable.
Habitat & Behavior:
This species prefers open and semi-open habitats including forest edges, gardens, and parklands. It feeds at a variety of flowers, often perching conspicuously or hovering at mid-level blooms. Males are territorial and chase intruders from favored flower patches. The White-throated Hummingbird adapts well to urban environments.
Conservation Note:
Widespread and adaptable, the White-throated Hummingbird is listed as Least Concern. It remains common throughout its range and shows no major signs of population decline.
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