O beija-flor turmalina (Heliangelus exortis) é um beija-flor escuro com um bico reto e bastante curto. O macho tem uma mancha púrpura brilhante na garganta e uma coroa anterior azul-esverdeada. A fêmea tem a garganta branca. Nota-se também uma cobertura branca na parte inferior da cauda e uma cauda entalhada bastante longa. Bastante comum nas florestas de altitude e nas orlas dos Andes da Colômbia e do Equador. Visita comedouros. Habita florestas montanhosas subtropicais ou tropicais húmidas.
Habitats e distribuição
The Tourmaline Sunangel inhabits montane forests and edge habitats, primarily thriving in humid, moss-laden, and densely vegetated areas. These environments typically range from 1,800 to 3,500 meters in elevation, where cloud forests and elfin woodlands provide abundant sources of nectar and insects, crucial to their diet. They are often found near streams and in areas with plentiful flowering plants, which are essential for their feeding and nesting behaviors. Geographically, the Tourmaline Sunangel is distributed across parts of the Northern Andes in countries such as Colombia and Ecuador. This region's diverse and fragmented topography supports the microhabitats necessary for the species, allowing them to occupy niches in both primary and secondary forests. While they may occasionally venture into adjacent anthropogenic landscapes like coffee plantations and forest clearings, their core presence remains tied to the rich, elevated forest ecosystems of the Andean slopes.
Comportamentos e reprodução
The Tourmaline Sunangel exhibits complex mating behaviors and a defined social structure. During the breeding season, males perform elaborate aerial displays, often accompanied by rapid wing beats, to attract females. They also engage in a unique courtship ritual that includes hovering in front of potential mates while showcasing their vibrant plumage and distinctive iridescent gorget. Territorial by nature, males will aggressively defend their chosen display sites from rivals, ensuring their chances of mating success. Reproduction involves the female solely constructing a small, cup-shaped nest made of plant fibers, moss, and spider silk, typically placed on a tree branch or shrub. Once the nest is built, the female lays two white eggs, which she incubates alone for about 15-18 days. After hatching, she continues to care for the chicks, feeding them regurgitated nectar and insects until they fledge in approximately three weeks. The solitary nature of nest building and chick rearing underscores the species' unique reproductive strategy focused on maternal effort.
Dieta
Néctar, pequenos insectos
Cores
Verde iridescente com uma cauda escura.
Factos divertidos
Originária da Colômbia e do Equador. Recebeu o nome da pedra preciosa turmalina devido às suas cores deslumbrantes.
Estado de conservação e esforços
The Tourmaline Sunangel is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating it does not face an immediate risk of extinction. Its population trend is considered stable, and it is found in a relatively wide range across Colombia and Ecuador. The primary threats to this species include habitat loss due to deforestation and land-use changes for agriculture and urban development. Conservation efforts for the Tourmaline Sunangel focus primarily on habitat protection and sustainable land management. Key initiatives include the establishment of protected areas and national parks within its range, as well as community-based conservation programs that promote sustainable agricultural practices. Additionally, reforestation projects and environmental education initiatives aim to raise awareness about the importance of preserving this hummingbird’s natural habitat.
