White-vented Violetear
White-vented Violetear (Colibri serrirostris)
Name Origin:
The genus Colibri is the French and Spanish word for hummingbird, derived from a Carib word. The species name serrirostris comes from Latin serra (“saw”) and rostrum (“bill”), referencing the fine serrations along the bill’s edge.
Quick Facts
Length: 11–12 cm (4.3–4.7 in)
⚖️ Weight: ~5.5–6.5 g (0.19–0.23 oz)
🌎 Range: Eastern Bolivia, central and southern Brazil, Paraguay, northern Argentina, and Uruguay
🛍️ Elevation: 500–3,000 m (1,640–9,840 ft)
🌺 Diet: Nectar and small arthropods
🏡 Habitat: Cerrado, woodland, forest edge, gardens, and open country
🧬 Clade: Polytminae “Mangoes”
📊 Status: Least Concern (IUCN 2024)
Subspecies & Distribution
The White-vented Violetear is monotypic; no recognized subspecies.
Species Overview
The White-vented Violetear is a large, robust hummingbird, recognized by its striking violet-blue cheek patch, metallic green upperparts, and conspicuous white undertail coverts (“vent”). It is widespread in open and semi-open habitats of south-central South America, often seen perched on exposed branches or hovering at flowering shrubs.
Male Description:
Males are mostly metallic green above and below, with a bold violet-blue ear patch, white vent, and a forked, dark blue tail. The bill is straight and black, and the crown has a greenish or bluish gloss.
Female Description:
Females are similar but duller, with less intense ear patches and more grayish below. The white vent and green upperparts remain prominent.
Habitat & Behavior:
Prefers open woodlands, cerrado, forest edges, and gardens. Frequently forages at flowers and may defend feeding territories aggressively. Commonly seen perched conspicuously in open areas and often vocalizes with sharp metallic notes.
Conservation Note:
Widespread and adaptable, the White-vented Violetear remains common throughout its range and is listed as Least Concern. It thrives in both natural and human-altered landscapes.
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