Turquoise-throated puffleg

Turquoise-throated Puffleg (Eriocnemis godini) is a highly endangered species of hummingbird belonging to the family Trochilidae. This bird is known for its distinctive turquoise throat and the puffy feathers on its legs, which give it the name "puffleg". The Turquoise-throated Puffleg is endemic to Ecuador, specifically to the cloud forests on the western slopes of the Andes. Due to its limited range and the ongoing threats to its habitat, it is considered critically endangered.

Description

The Turquoise-throated Puffleg is a medium-sized hummingbird, measuring approximately 10-12 cm in length. The male is distinguished by its iridescent turquoise throat patch, which contrasts with its dark green upper parts and flanks. The underparts are mostly greyish, transitioning to white near the tail. Both sexes have distinctive white leg puffs, which are tufts of elongated white feathers covering the legs. The female is similar to the male but has a less vibrant throat patch.

Habitat and Distribution

This species is restricted to the Andean cloud forests of Ecuador, at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 2,400 meters. These forests are characterized by high humidity and constant mist, conditions that are critical for the survival of the Turquoise-throated Puffleg. The bird's habitat is threatened by deforestation, agricultural expansion, and mining, leading to a significant reduction in its available living space.

Behavior

Turquoise-throated Pufflegs are solitary birds that are highly territorial. They feed primarily on nectar from a variety of flowering plants, using their long, slender beaks to access the nectar while hovering. They also consume small insects and spiders, which provide necessary protein. The breeding habits of the Turquoise-throated Puffleg are not well documented, but like other hummingbirds, they are presumed to be solitary nesters, with the female taking on all responsibilities for nest-building and care of the young.

Conservation Status

The IUCN Red List classifies the Turquoise-throated Puffleg as Critically Endangered. The primary threats to its survival are habitat loss and fragmentation due to human activities. Conservation efforts are focused on protecting the remaining cloud forest habitats and promoting reforestation projects. However, the species' small population size and limited range make it particularly vulnerable to extinction.

See Also

• Cloud forest
• Endemic species
• Conservation status
• IUCN Red List