Black-thighed Puffleg Eriocnemis derbyi Scientific name definitions

Currently, listed as “near threatened,” the population of Black-thighed Pufflegs is declining due to loss of habitat. They depend on the edges of humid forests, bushy semi-open pastures, and ravines; they spend little time, if any, in the forest interior. Black-thighed Pufflegs are active, territorial hummingbirds that primarily feed on nectar from low flowers. Both males and females are green above with black tails. The leg puffs of males are black while those on females are a blend of black and white. Females are white below but have large and extensive green spots.

10 cm. Bill straight, blackish. Male shining golden-green above and below, underparts appearing black in certain lights; uppertail- and undertail-coverts are strongly glittering malachite-green, contrasting with black leg puffs; tail forked and pointed, black. Female and juvenile are similar but with underparts more white, thickly spotted with glittering green discs and with leg puffs mixed black and greyish-white. Female shows a blue tinge on forehead . Juvenile similar to female.

C Andes of Colombia (S from Tolima) and NW Ecuador (to Imbabura).

Only known vocalization is a short buzzy trill “tzzrr”, repeated at irregular intervals, and given both when perched or in hovering flight. Quite different from its congeners.