Any bird lover cannot ignore the beauty of Sapphire-bellied Hummingbird (Chrysuronia lilliae). Indeed very attractive hummingbird is unfortunately critically endangered.
This hummingbird is known to visit Erythrina fusca flowers, tea mangrove (Pelliciera rhizophorae), and presumably other local species In the nearby arid scrub, it also eats insects. With a tiny population and few reliable observations, this is a little-known species in urgent need of study and major conservation help. As they feed on nectar, Sapphire-bellied Hummingbirds transfer pollen from one flower to another. Fertilizing plants and promoting their reproduction are two benefits of this process.
It is restricted to coastal mangrove swamps, a habitat much damaged by development in its tiny range, particularly a major construction project in the mid-1990s, and there are thought to be no more than 300-400 individuals left, perhaps far fewer. At least part of the population is protected within Colombia’s Salamanca Island Road Park.
Distribution: It occurs in two protected areas, one of which has very few records, Vía Parque Isla de Salamanca. This is a tiny area of coastal north-central Colombia.
Identification: The male Sapphire-bellied Hummingbird is the shining blue coloration is darker on the throat and extends to the entire underparts (except for the white undertail). The bill is only very slightly down-curved, and is black above and red below. The female has rarely been reliably observed but is thought to be duller and grayer on the underside.
Similar Species: This little bird closely resembles the Sapphire-throated Hummingbird.
Vocalizations: The call consists of short series of chatter.
Habitat: Mangroves and sometimes adjacent scrubland; 0–350 ft (0–100 m)
Size: Length: 31⁄2–33⁄4 in (9–9.5 cm).
Weight: 4.5 g
Movement: The little bird takes seasonal local movement.
Status: Critically Endangered
Read More: Broad-billed Hummingbird
