Bronzy Inca

Coeligena coeligena

km18 Valle Del Cauca Colombia

Quick Facts

  • Scientific Name: Coeligena coeligena
  • Spanish Name: Inca bronceado
  • Family: Trochilidae
  • Known Nicknames: Inca Bronceado
  • Average Length: 13–14 cm / 5.1–5.5 in
  • Average Weight: 6.5–7.5 g / 0.23–0.26 oz
  • Wingspan: 13–15 cm / 5.1–5.9 in
  • Key Feature: Dull bronzy-brown plumage with a long, straight black bill and a distinctive small white spot behind the eye
  • Primary Diet: Nectarivore (Nectar and small arthropods)
  • Range: Andes Mountains from northern Venezuela and Colombia through Ecuador and Peru to central Bolivia
  • Habitat: Humid montane forests, cloud forests, and dense forest edges
  • Social Structure: Solitary; trap-lining forager
  • Nesting/Breeding: Cup-shaped nest made of moss and plant down, typically attached to hanging roots or vines
  • Statut de conservation : Préoccupation mineure (LC)
  • Population Trend: Stable

The Bronzy Inca (*Coeligena coeligena*) is a large, robust hummingbird native to the humid montane forests of the Andes, distinguished by its sophisticated and understated beauty. True to its name, this bird is draped in dark, metallic bronzy-brown plumage that glows with coppery highlights, a striking departure from the iridescent greens typical of many other hummingbird species. Its most notable physical features include a remarkably long, straight black bill and a subtle, distinctive white spot located just behind each eye. A specialized "trap-liner," the Bronzy Inca exhibits fascinating behavior by following a fixed circuit of flowering plants rather than defending a single territory, often perching gracefully while feeding. With its slightly forked bronzy tail and elegant silhouette, this bird is a master of the high-altitude cloud forests, blending perfectly into the dappled shadows of the South American canopy.

Faits amusants

The Bronzy Inca is a master of "trap-lining," a foraging strategy where it tirelessly patrols a fixed circuit of flowers throughout the day rather than aggressively defending a single territory. While it may appear deceptively drab and brownish in the shade, this hummingbird conceals a secret: a brilliant, iridescent patch of feathers on its lower back that flashes with metallic intensity when caught in the light. Despite its large size, it is surprisingly docile and often waits its turn at feeders, displaying a calm temperament that contrasts with the feisty nature typical of most hummingbirds. Its exceptionally long, straight bill is a specialized tool perfectly evolved for reaching nectar deep inside the tubular blossoms of its Andean cloud forest home.

Habitats et répartition

This hummingbird is native to the subtropical and temperate regions of the Andes mountains in South America. Its range extends from northern Venezuela and Colombia through Ecuador and Peru, reaching as far south as central Bolivia. Within this mountain chain, it is found on both the eastern and western slopes, though its distribution is often localized depending on the specific subspecies. It primarily inhabits humid montane forests and cloud forests, often favoring the interior of dense, mossy woodlands. It is also frequently observed along forest edges, in shady clearings, and within mature secondary growth. Typically occurring at elevations between 1,500 and 2,600 meters, it thrives in environments rich in epiphytes and flowering plants that provide its necessary nectar sources.

Comportements & Reproduction

This species exhibits a largely solitary and relatively sedentary lifestyle, primarily inhabiting the dense understory and mid-levels of humid montane forests. Unlike more aggressive hummingbird species, it typically employs a "trap-lining" foraging strategy, where individuals follow a consistent, circular route to visit widely dispersed nectar sources rather than defending a specific floral territory. Social interactions are minimal and are generally restricted to brief encounters during the breeding season. Reproductive behavior is characterized by a polygynous mating system where males perform vocal and aerial displays to attract multiple females but provide no parental care. The female is solely responsible for the reproductive process, from constructing a small, cup-shaped nest of moss and spider silk to incubating the typical clutch of two eggs. These nests are often strategically placed on low branches or among tree roots to provide protection from predators and the elements.

Alimentation

The Bronzy Inca primarily sustains itself on the nectar of long-tubed flowers, showing a particular preference for botanical genera such as Bomarea, Centropogon, and Fuchsia. Unlike many other hummingbirds that aggressively defend specific patches of flowers, this species is a trap-liner, meaning it follows a consistent, long-distance circuit between scattered nectar sources throughout the forest understory. To supplement its high-sugar diet with necessary proteins and minerals, it also consumes small insects and spiders, which it captures by gleaning them from the undersides of leaves or snatching them mid-air through a technique known as hawking. Interestingly, its relatively long, straight bill is perfectly adapted for accessing deep floral tubes that other shorter-billed species cannot reach, allowing it to exploit a unique ecological niche within its Andean habitat.

Couleurs

The Bronzy Inca is characterized by its uniform metallic coppery-brown or dark bronze plumage, which provides excellent camouflage within the shaded Andean cloud forest understory. It features a small, conspicuous white spot behind the eye and paler, grayish-buff underparts. The tail is dark bronze and forked, maintaining a somber, monochromatic appearance that lacks the brilliant iridescent patches typical of many other hummingbirds.