O beija-flor-de-bico-curto (Oxypogon stuebelii) é um beija-flor de bico curto encontrado apenas em altitudes extremamente elevadas nos Andes centrais da Colômbia. O macho adulto tem barba verde e azul, padrão de cabeça preto e lustroso e crista desgrenhada. As fêmeas e os machos mais jovens não têm a crista e a barba e têm uma coloração mais suave, mas ainda são reconhecíveis pelo seu grande tamanho e bico relativamente pequeno. São frequentemente vistos a alimentarem-se ou a empoleirarem-se em plantas de Espeletia. A Espeletia, também conhecida como Frailejón, é nativa das pastagens altas dos Andes; caracteriza-se pelo seu caule curto, semelhante a um tronco, folhas grandes e alongadas e flores pequenas e amarelas.
Habitats e distribuição
The Buffy Helmetcrest is endemic to Colombia, specifically found in the páramo ecosystems of the central Andes. These high-altitude grasslands, typically situated between 3,800 and 4,800 meters above sea level, provide the cold and wet environment that this species thrives in.
Comportamentos e reprodução
This hummingbird species is known for its territorial behavior, often aggressively defending its feeding and breeding areas from intruders. The Buffy Helmetcrest builds small cup-shaped nests from plant fibers, moss, and lichens, usually positioned on rock ledges or among dense vegetation. Breeding typically occurs during the rainy season when food resources are more abundant.
Dieta
This hummingbird primarily feeds on nectar from high-altitude flowering plants, especially those with tubular flowers. It also consumes small insects and spiders for protein.
Cores
Cinzento com crista lustrosa e barba púrpura
Factos divertidos
Adapted to high-altitude environments with a higher concentration of hemoglobin in their blood.
Males fan out their elongated throat feathers during displays.
Aggressively defends feeding and breeding territories.
Estado de conservação e esforços
The Buffy Helmetcrest is currently classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Habitat destruction, primarily due to agricultural expansion and burning of páramo vegetation, poses a significant threat to its survival. Conservation efforts are focused on habitat protection and restoration, as well as raising awareness about the importance of páramo ecosystems. Initiatives include creating protected areas and working with local communities to promote sustainable land use practices.
Galeria
