Peru Bird Species VI: Sword-billed Hummingbird

The Sword-billed Hummingbird (Ensifera ensifera) is a species native to the Andes, ranging from Venezuela to Bolivia. It is the only member of the genus Ensifera and is known for having a bill longer than its body, excluding the tail. This unique feature is an adaptation for feeding on deep, tubular flowers in high-altitude cloud forests. Available for birding with Birding Tours Peru. 

Physical Characteristics

The bird has a body length of about 13 to 14 centimeters, with a bill reaching up to 10 centimeters, making it the only bird with a bill longer than its body. Its plumage is mostly metallic green on the upperparts and bronze-green to golden-green on the underparts. The tail is long and slightly forked with bronzy or greenish tones.

Males have more intense iridescence on the throat and chest, while females tend to be duller in coloration and have longer bills on average. This difference in bill length is a form of sexual dimorphism, possibly related to feeding behavior.

Feeding Behavior and Floral Specialization

The Sword-billed Hummingbird is a specialist nectar feeder, adapted to feed from flowers with long corollas, such as Passiflora mixta. It has a mutualistic relationship with these plants, pollinating them while accessing nectar. It also visits other long flowers like Brugmansia, Datura, and Fuchsia. In addition to nectar, it captures insects in flight to meet its protein needs.

Preening Behavior

Unlike most birds, the Sword-billed Hummingbird cannot use its bill for preening due to its extreme length. Instead, it uses its feet to scratch and clean its feathers, a behavior made necessary by its unique morphology. Preening is essential for maintaining the condition and alignment of feathers, especially for birds like hummingbirds that rely on aerodynamic precision during flight.

Breeding and Nesting

Breeding occurs mainly between February and March. The female builds a cup-shaped nest from moss and plant materials, usually suspended from roots or hanging vegetation. She alone is responsible for incubation and chick care.

Conservation Status

The sword-billed hummingbird is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN. However, its dependence on certain plant species and high-elevation forest habitats makes it vulnerable to threats from habitat loss and climate change.

Source: Wikipedia

Photo: Holmes Pantoja, Birds Hotel Molino, Birding Tours Peru