Lesser Violetear

The lesser violetear, or Colibri cyanotus, is a medium-sized hummingbird adorned with a metallic green plumage. It is distinguished by a glittering violet patch on the sides of its neck, which resembles a pair of delicate ears. The bird's throat and chest shimmer in green, while its belly maintains the same lustrous hue. Its tail feathers exhibit a metallic blue-green color with bronzy central feathers and a distinct black subterminal band.

Identification Tips

When identifying the lesser violetear, look for its predominantly green plumage and the characteristic violet ear-patch. The bird's bill is black, mostly straight with a slight curve, and measures between 1.8 to 2.5 cm. The wing chord ranges from 5.8 to 6.8 cm, and the tail spans 3.5 to 4.3 cm. The body mass of this species can vary from 4.8 to 5.6 g.

Habitat

The lesser violetear thrives in the canopy and edges of subtropical to lower temperate forests, secondary woodlands, and scrub. It is also found in clearings and gardens within the subtropical zone of the Andes. Preferring humid and high-altitude environments, such as cloud forests, it is typically found at altitudes ranging from 1,200 to 2,300 meters, though it may descend to 500 meters in search of food.

Distribution

This species is native to the highlands of Costa Rica and western Panama, the mountains of northern Venezuela, and the Andes from western Venezuela to western Bolivia.

Behaviour

The lesser violetear is known to forage alone but will congregate at flowering trees, such as coffee-shade Inga, where it feeds from mid-level to canopy. It is territorial when feeding and has been observed defending its feeding grounds. Remarkably, this hummingbird has been recorded reaching speeds of up to 90 mph during chases, potentially the highest flying speed recorded for its kind.

Song & Calls

The male lesser violetear sings a monotonous "tsu-tzeek" from high, exposed perches within its territory, repeating the call approximately once per second.

Breeding

During the breeding season, the female lesser violetear takes sole responsibility for nest construction and care of the young. She builds a small, sturdy cup-shaped nest using plant materials, spider webs, and down on a low, horizontal branch. After mating, the female lays two small white eggs and incubates them for 14-18 days. The hatchlings are primarily fed insects to meet their high nutritional needs.

Similar Species

The lesser violetear can be confused with the sparkling violetear, but the latter prefers drier and lower-altitude habitats and is absent from the central valley where the sparkling violetear is prevalent.

Diet and Feeding

Nectar and small insects comprise the diet of the lesser violetear. It is adept at defending its feeding territory and is often seen at flowering trees, where it feeds at various levels from mid-height to the canopy.

Conservation status

The lesser violetear is listed under CITES Appendix II, indicating that while it is not currently threatened with extinction, it may become so without trade controls.