The Black-hooded Sunbeam bird is a striking species that belongs to the family of hummingbirds. It is a medium-sized bird with a distinctive black hood covering its head and throat. Its body is adorned with brilliant metallic green feathers that shine in the sunlight. The bird also has a long slender beak that is perfectly adapted for sipping nectar from flowers.
The Black-hooded Sunbeam is native to the Andean region of South America. It is found in the high-altitude mountain forests of countries such as Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. The bird is known for its agility and speed, and is often seen darting around flowers in search of nectar. It is also a skilled flier, capable of hovering in mid-air and flying backwards.
In terms of diet, the Black-hooded Sunbeam primarily feeds on nectar from flowers, along with some insects and spiders. It is an important pollinator of many plant species in its range. The bird has also been known to occasionally visit feeders in gardens and parks, especially if they contain a sweet nectar solution.
Breeding season for the Black-hooded Sunbeam occurs between March and July. The male performs an elaborate courtship display to attract a mate, which involves flying in a U-shape pattern while making a high-pitched chirping noise. Once a female is selected, she will construct a small cup-shaped nest out of plant fibers and spiderwebs. The female will lay two eggs, which are incubated by both parents for about two weeks. The young birds fledge from the nest about a month later.
Sadly, the Black-hooded Sunbeam is considered a species of Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), with a stable population trend. However, habitat destruction and fragmentation due to human activity, such as logging and mining, can still pose a threat to this beautiful bird. Conservation efforts are therefore important to ensure the continued survival of the Black-hooded Sunbeam and its unique habitat.