Genus Chalcostigma: Andean Thornbills
Andean Thornbills
Thornbills belong to the genus Chalcostigma, a group of five small hummingbird species found in the high-altitude regions of the Andes. They are characterized by their short, slightly decurved bills and iridescent gorgets, often displaying striking metallic colors. Thornbills inhabit elevations above 2,500 meters and well into 4,000 meters.
Thornbill Species
Four thornbill species are found in Peru: the Rainbow-bearded Thornbill (C. herrani), Blue-mantled Thornbill (C. stanleyi), Bronze-tailed Thornbill (C. heteropogon), and Olive-headed Thornbill (C. olivaceum).
Rainbow-bearded Thornbill (C. herrani)
Classified as Least Concern, has two subspecies: C. h. herrani, found in Colombia and Ecuador, and C. h. pallidum, which occurs in Peru and Bolivia and has a paler overall coloration. It is the only species that forages close to the ground, while others prefer feeding from shrubs and small trees. This preference makes them more vulnerable to deforestation.
Blue-mantled Thornbill (C. stanleyi)
Also Least Concern, it is the only one with a blue back. The Blue-mantled Thornbill is the resident in the Sacred Valley.
Bronze-tailed Thornbill (C. heteropogon)
It is near Near Threatened. It is notable for giving the genus Chalcostigma its name, meaning "bronze mark" in Greek.Â
Olive-headed Thornbill (C. olivaceum)
Endemic to Peru, it is the least vibrant and has a limited range, leading to its classification as Near Threatened.Â
Black-throated Thornbill (C. ruficeps)
The Black-throated Thornbill is the rarest of the group. Primarily found in Colombia and Ecuador, it is categorized as Least Concern, though it is rarely observed due to its remote habitat.
Sources
- BirdLife International (2024). Species factsheets. www.birdlife.org
- Gill, F., Donsker, D., & Rasmussen, P. (Eds.). (2023). IOC World Bird List (v13.2). www.worldbirdnames.org
- WikipediaÂ
Photo: Holmes Pantoja, Birds Hotel Molino, Birding Tours Peru
