Peru Bird Species XIX: Peruvian Racket-tail

	Apodiformes
	Trochilidae
	Ocreatus
	Peru, Ecuador
	Least Concern

Appearance

The Peruvian racket-tail shows strong differences between males and females. Males have long outer tail feathers with oval-shaped tips that resemble small rackets. These decorative feathers can measure up to 7 centimeters in length. Both males and females have green upperparts, white spots behind the eyes, and cinnamon-colored feather tufts around their legs.

Females are smaller and do not have the long racket-shaped tail. Instead, they have white underparts with green spotting.

Habitat and Distribution

This hummingbird lives mainly on the eastern slopes of the Andes in northeastern Peru and eastern Ecuador. It prefers humid mountain forests, forest edges, and secondary forests. The species is commonly found at elevations between 1,600 and 3,000 meters above sea level, although it may occur as low as 600 meters and as high as 4,000 meters. 

Feeding Behavior

The Peruvian Racket-tail feeds primarily on nectar from flowering plants such as Palicourea, Clusia, Inga, and Cavendishia. It also catches small insects while flying. Like many hummingbirds, it hovers in front of flowers while feeding. 

Breeding

The female builds a small cup-shaped nest using plant fibers and lichen. The nest is usually placed on a horizontal branch several meters above the ground. Females typically lay two eggs, which hatch after about 16 to 17 days. Young birds leave the nest around three weeks later. 

Conservation Status

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classifies the Peruvian Racket-tail as a species of “Least Concern.” Scientists believe its population is stable, and the bird is found in several protected areas across its range.

Source: Wikipedia

Photo: Holmes Pantoja