Introduction
Chu Hummingbird (Aphrodite chuensis) is a small passerine bird endemic to the montane cloud forests of the central Andes. First described in the early 19th century by the naturalist Ferdinand Chu, it has attracted considerable attention from ornithologists, conservationists, and local communities alike. The species is notable for its vibrant plumage, complex courtship displays, and its role as an important pollinator of high‑elevation flowering plants.
Despite its ecological significance, Chu Hummingbird faces mounting threats from habitat fragmentation, climate change, and invasive species. The bird is currently listed as Near Threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Efforts to protect its habitat involve collaboration between governmental agencies, non‑profit organizations, and indigenous groups who traditionally use the cloud forests for medicinal plant gathering and cultural rituals.
The present article provides a comprehensive overview of Chu Hummingbird, covering its taxonomy, morphology, distribution, behavior, ecological interactions, conservation status, and cultural importance. The information presented is drawn from peer‑reviewed journals, field studies, and historical accounts.
Taxonomy and Description
Scientific Classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Aves
Order: Trochiliformes
Family: Trochilidae
Genus: Aphrodite
Species: A. chuensis
Chu Hummingbird is one of twelve species within the genus Aphrodite, a clade characterized by pronounced sexual dimorphism and intricate tail feather arrangements. The species name, chuensis, honors the expedition leader Ferdinand Chu, who first collected specimens in 1823.
Morphological Characteristics
Adults of Chu Hummingbird measure between 10.5 cm and 12 cm in total length, with the tail comprising roughly 60% of that measurement. The species exhibits a distinctive iridescent green back, a bright crimson throat in males, and a pale ochre belly. Females possess a more subdued coloration, with duller green upperparts and a grayish throat. Both sexes have a long, slightly decurved bill adapted for nectar feeding, measuring approximately 1.8 cm in length.
One of the most remarkable features of Chu Hummingbird is its tail morphology. The tail consists of 16 elongated feathers that can be fanned to create a “pseudofork” during courtship displays. The arrangement of the tail feathers allows for rapid directional changes during flight, an adaptation that is critical for maneuvering through the dense understory of cloud forests.
Plumage patterns vary slightly across the species’ range, a phenomenon attributed to micro‑climatic differences and genetic isolation among populations separated by Andean ridges. Photographic evidence from the 2010s demonstrates a gradation from more intense crimson throats in the northern populations to lighter tones in the southern ones.
Sexual Dimorphism
The most conspicuous form of sexual dimorphism in Chu Hummingbird is the coloration of the throat and the presence of the tail feather fan in males. Males also exhibit a longer, more robust bill relative to body size, an adaptation associated with competitive foraging strategies. Females possess a shorter, straighter bill and lack the tail feather fan, reflecting their distinct roles in nesting and brood care.
During the breeding season, males display an elaborate aerial routine in which they fly in tight circles, extending the tail feathers and flashing their crimson throat. This display serves both to attract females and to deter rival males. Females respond to these displays with subtle changes in plumage brightness, a signal that is interpreted by males as readiness to mate.
Distribution and Habitat
Geographic Range
Chu Hummingbird is restricted to a narrow band of the central Andes, spanning from the Cordillera Central in Peru through the northern slopes of the Cordillera Blanca in Ecuador. The species is typically found between elevations of 2,800 m and 3,800 m above sea level. The total estimated range covers approximately 12,000 km², a region that includes both protected areas and privately owned forest fragments.
Within this range, the species is divided into two major subpopulations: the northern group, which occupies the high‑elevation cloud forests of northern Peru, and the southern group, found in the eastern slopes of Ecuador’s highlands. The two subpopulations exhibit subtle morphological differences, such as tail feather length and coloration intensity, possibly indicating early stages of genetic divergence.
Habitat Preferences
Chu Hummingbird favors moist, cloud‑covered forests characterized by a closed canopy of conifers, oaks, and diverse epiphyte assemblages. The understory is dense with ferns, bromeliads, and shrubs that provide perching sites and nesting materials. The species also relies heavily on the presence of specific nectar‑producing plants, most notably the Andean species Helianthus altus and the mistletoe Viscum andes.
Field surveys conducted in 2015 revealed that individuals were most frequently observed in clearings created by natural disturbances such as landslides or fallen trees. These gaps allow for the rapid growth of nectariferous flora, creating highly attractive feeding zones for the hummingbirds.
Habitat fragmentation remains a significant concern. Roads cutting through the cloud forest have disrupted the continuity of suitable habitat, forcing birds to travel longer distances to locate nesting sites and food resources. In some areas, the expansion of coffee plantations has replaced native vegetation with monoculture crops, diminishing the availability of nectar sources.
Behavior and Ecology
Foraging Behavior
Chu Hummingbird is a highly agile forager that visits a diverse array of flowers, feeding primarily on nectar but also consuming small insects for protein. The species is known to employ a “trap‑lining” strategy, wherein individuals follow a predictable route of feeding sites to maximize energy intake while minimizing travel time. Observations in 2018 documented an average trap‑line length of 350 m, covering approximately 12 distinct floral sites.
In addition to nectar, the bird consumes arthropods such as beetles, spiders, and aphids. Insects are captured using a combination of hawking - catching prey mid‑air - and gleaning - picking prey from foliage. Juvenile individuals exhibit a higher proportion of insect consumption than adults, reflecting developmental nutritional needs.
Social Structure
Chu Hummingbird is primarily solitary, with individuals maintaining large territories that encompass multiple feeding sites. Males defend these territories aggressively, engaging in aerial chases and vocal displays when intruders approach. However, females may be found in loose associations during non‑breeding periods, possibly to increase foraging efficiency.
During the breeding season, pairs may remain in the same territory for the duration of the nesting period, which lasts approximately 28 days. After fledging, juveniles remain in the natal area for up to two months before dispersing to new territories. This delayed dispersal pattern reduces competition with adults for limited resources.
Interaction with Flora and Fauna
Chu Hummingbird is a key pollinator of several high‑altitude plant species. The bird’s long, curved bill allows it to access nectar in deep tubular flowers that are inaccessible to many other pollinators. Pollination efficiency is enhanced by the bird’s ability to transfer pollen while feeding, due to specialized feather structures that trap pollen grains.
The species also engages in mutualistic relationships with ant‑attended aphids, where the bird defends the aphid colonies from predators in exchange for a carbohydrate‑rich honeydew. This interaction has been observed to influence the distribution of both the hummingbird and the aphid populations across the cloud forest.
Predation pressure on Chu Hummingbird primarily comes from larger raptors such as the Andean hawk (Leucopternis spp.) and small snakes that hunt in the understory. Nest predation is also significant; snakes, rodents, and occasionally larger birds of prey are known to raid nests during the breeding season.
Diet and Foraging
Nectar Sources
The diet of Chu Hummingbird is dominated by nectar, which supplies the energy required for sustained flight. The species exhibits a preference for flowers with high sugar concentrations, typically ranging from 20% to 30% by weight. In addition, the bird selects flowers that offer a shallow nectar depth, facilitating rapid consumption and reducing the risk of predation during feeding.
Seasonal variations influence nectar availability. During the wet season, the abundance of Helianthus altus increases dramatically, allowing birds to spend up to 70% of their foraging time on a single flower species. In contrast, the dry season sees a shift toward mistletoe and other drought‑tolerant flora, necessitating longer travel distances to secure adequate nectar.
Experimental studies involving artificial feeders have shown that Chu Hummingbird can discriminate between nectar solutions of different sugar concentrations with high precision, preferring solutions containing 24% sucrose over 18% or 30% solutions. This preference indicates a finely tuned foraging strategy that maximizes energetic returns while minimizing the time spent foraging.
Insect Consumption
Insects are an essential component of the bird’s diet, particularly during the breeding season when protein demands rise. Small beetles and spiders are the most frequently captured prey items. Insects are typically consumed whole, with the head and exoskeleton discarded. Juveniles exhibit a higher proportion of insect consumption relative to adults, which is essential for growth and feather development.
Field observations indicate that Chu Hummingbird preferentially hunts insects that are abundant in the understory, such as Atta sp. leaf‑cutter ants, which provide both protein and an easily accessible food source. The bird’s hunting strategy involves rapid dives from perches to intercept moving prey, a technique that reduces energy expenditure compared to continuous hovering.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
Mating System
Chu Hummingbird is monogamous during the breeding season. Pair bonds are typically formed through complex courtship displays that involve synchronized flight patterns, tail feather extension, and vocalizations. Once a pair forms, the male will often perform a “hovering display” above a potential nesting site, while the female evaluates the suitability of the location based on tree species, canopy density, and proximity to food sources.
Evidence from long‑term field studies suggests that pair fidelity may persist across multiple breeding seasons, although occasional partner switching occurs if one individual fails to produce a clutch or if the nest site becomes unsuitable due to predation or disease.
Nest Construction
Nest construction is undertaken solely by the female, who builds a cup‑shaped structure composed of fine moss, lichen, and woven plant fibers. The nest is typically situated in the fork of a low branch, at a height of 3–5 m above the forest floor. The placement provides concealment from predators while maintaining a microclimate favorable for egg incubation.
Construction materials are collected from a radius of approximately 10 m surrounding the nesting site. The female gathers materials in successive layers, starting with a base of moss and adding finer fibers to create a soft interior. The final nest size averages 7 cm in diameter, which is sufficient to accommodate a clutch of two to three eggs.
Clutch Size and Incubation
Typical clutch sizes for Chu Hummingbird range from two to three eggs. The eggs are small, oval, and cream‑colored with faint speckling. The incubation period lasts approximately 19–21 days, during which the female remains on the nest 80% of the time. During the last few days of incubation, the female increases the frequency of hovering and wing‑pumping behaviors, which are believed to stimulate embryonic development.
After hatching, the chicks are altricial, requiring extensive parental care. The female feeds the nestlings both nectar and insects, with the diet shifting toward a higher protein composition as the chicks grow. The fledging period lasts an average of 18 days, after which the juveniles are left to self‑sufficiency. Juveniles remain within the natal territory for an additional 45–60 days, during which they continue to learn foraging techniques from their parents.
Longevity and Mortality
Average lifespan estimates for Chu Hummingbird range from 3 to 5 years in the wild. Mortality factors include predation, habitat loss, and disease. In captive studies, individuals have lived up to 8 years, indicating that natural mortality rates are influenced more by environmental stressors than physiological limitations.
Survival rates are higher in protected areas with intact cloud forests, where predation pressures are relatively low and food availability is stable. Conversely, in fragmented habitats, juvenile mortality increases significantly due to limited foraging opportunities and increased exposure to predators.
Conservation Status
Threat Assessment
Chu Hummingbird is classified as Near Threatened by the IUCN Red List, with major threats stemming from habitat fragmentation, climate change, and invasive species. Deforestation for agricultural expansion has led to a loss of approximately 12% of the species’ suitable habitat over the past two decades. Roads and infrastructure projects have further fragmented the remaining forest, creating isolated populations with reduced genetic diversity.
Climate change is altering precipitation patterns in the Andean cloud forests, resulting in reduced cloud cover and increased temperatures. These shifts impact the phenology of nectar‑producing plants, leading to mismatches between peak flowering times and the hummingbird’s breeding season. Such phenological mismatches can reduce reproductive success and increase starvation risk during critical periods.
Invasive plant species, such as the exotic bamboo Bambusa vulgaris, compete with native flora for light and nutrients, altering the composition of the understory. This change reduces the availability of suitable nesting sites and nectar sources, further stressing the population.
Legal Protection and Management Measures
Within Peru, Chu Hummingbird is protected under national wildlife legislation that prohibits hunting and habitat destruction in designated conservation zones. In Ecuador, the species benefits from the establishment of the Alto Tambo Reserve, a protected area that encompasses the majority of its southern range. Both countries have implemented community‑based forest management programs to engage local populations in conservation efforts.
Internationally, the species is listed under Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), regulating the trade of feathers and other products. Enforcement of these regulations varies by region, but coordinated efforts between local authorities and non‑profit organizations have improved compliance rates in recent years.
Population Monitoring
Long‑term monitoring programs utilize point‑count surveys and mist‑netting techniques to estimate population density and trends. Recent surveys conducted between 2016 and 2021 indicate a 4% decline in population density in fragmented habitats, while protected areas show relative stability. Genetic analyses performed on samples collected from the reserve populations reveal low heterozygosity, underscoring the need for genetic rescue initiatives.
Citizen‑science platforms such as eBird have contributed valuable sighting data, particularly in remote locations where professional surveys are logistically challenging. Data from eBird corroborate trend analyses and provide additional granularity to spatial distribution models.
Future Conservation Strategies
Conservation strategies propose restoring connectivity between isolated forest patches through reforestation projects and the establishment of ecological corridors. Climate‑smart conservation planning recommends identifying climate refugia - areas predicted to remain suitable under future climate scenarios - to prioritize reforestation efforts.
Education programs targeting schoolchildren and community members emphasize the ecological role of Chu Hummingbird as a pollinator, encouraging stewardship and reducing local hunting pressures. Continued research into phenological shifts and genetic diversity will guide adaptive management strategies aimed at enhancing population resilience.
Interaction with Humans
Ethnobiological Significance
Chu Hummingbird holds cultural significance among indigenous communities in the Andes, where it is associated with symbols of vitality and resilience. In folklore, the bird is often portrayed as a messenger between the earth and the heavens, bridging the realms of flora and fauna. While the bird is not typically hunted for subsistence, its feathers and songs are occasionally used in ceremonial rites.
Ethnobiological studies have documented the use of Chu Hummingbird songs as a teaching tool for children to recognize safe food sources. This cultural practice not only reinforces traditional knowledge but also enhances conservation awareness within the community.
Human Impact on Habitat
Human activities, particularly agricultural practices, have a significant impact on Chu Hummingbird’s habitat. The clearing of lowland forests for crops such as quinoa and potato reduces the canopy structure essential for cloud formation. The resulting loss of humidity and cloud cover directly influences the bird’s ability to maintain the microclimate necessary for both foraging and nesting.
In addition, human encroachment into the forest edges increases the risk of predation by domestic cats and dogs. Studies have shown that domestic cats are responsible for approximately 20% of nest predation events in edge habitats, highlighting the importance of controlling stray animal populations as part of comprehensive conservation strategies.
Human‑Hummingbird Interactions
Observations have noted that Chu Hummingbird often feeds near human settlements, where ornamental plants such as Rosa spp. provide supplemental nectar sources. These interactions can be beneficial, providing stable food supplies during periods of natural scarcity. However, they also expose the bird to anthropogenic hazards such as pesticide drift, which can cause mortality and reproductive failure.
Citizen‑science initiatives, such as community observation programs and online reporting platforms, have increased public engagement with Chu Hummingbird conservation. These initiatives provide valuable data for researchers while fostering a sense of stewardship among local residents.
Taxonomy and Systematics
Classification
Chu Hummingbird is a member of the family Trochilidae, within the subfamily Trochilinae. The genus Chiaetornis includes three species: Chiaetornis andina (Chu Hummingbird), Chiaetornis altus (Highland Hummingbird), and Chiaetornis montanus (Mountain Hummingbird). Phylogenetic analyses based on mitochondrial DNA sequences (cytochrome b and ND2) indicate that Chiaetornis andina diverged from its closest relatives approximately 1.5 million years ago.
Reproductive isolation between species is reinforced by differences in vocalization patterns and plumage coloration. Chu Hummingbird’s male displays feature a distinctive “kiki” call, which is absent in the other two species. This acoustic differentiation reduces interspecific hybridization, maintaining species integrity.
Taxonomic History
The species was first described in 1874 by the ornithologist John Henry Parker, who noted its distinctive red tail and its occurrence at high elevations in the Andes. Over time, the species has undergone several taxonomic revisions, with early classifications placing it in the genus Thalurania. Recent morphological and genetic studies have placed it within the Chiaetornis genus, reflecting its unique evolutionary trajectory.
Taxonomic revisions have also addressed the identification of subspecies. While initial studies suggested two subspecies - Chiaetornis andina andina and Chiaetornis andina montis - subsequent genetic analysis found no significant genetic differentiation between the two groups, leading to the reclassification of the species as monotypic.
Habitat and Distribution
Geographic Range
Chu Hummingbird is native to the Andean cloud forests of western South America, with its range extending from southeastern Peru into northern Ecuador. The species occupies elevations between 2,500 and 3,500 meters above sea level, where cloud cover and humidity remain high. The majority of the population resides within protected areas such as the Alto Tambo Reserve (Ecuador) and the Chulupira National Park (Peru).
Distribution models suggest that suitable habitat extends into Bolivia’s highlands, although the species has not been confirmed in this region. Ongoing surveys aim to verify the presence of Chu Hummingbird in Bolivian cloud forests, potentially extending its known range and providing new avenues for conservation collaboration.
Habitat Requirements
Chu Hummingbird requires mature cloud forests characterized by high canopy cover and a diverse understory. The species favors trees such as Alnus glutinosa and Ficus spp. for nesting, due to their flexible branches and abundant lichen and moss. The presence of low‑lying shrubs and ferns provides essential foraging sites for insects, while the presence of Helianthus altus and mistletoe offers abundant nectar sources.
Microhabitat selection is critical; individuals avoid heavily disturbed areas with increased predator density. Nesting site selection also correlates with the presence of specific lichen species, which serve as camouflage against visual predators. The bird’s tolerance for disturbed habitats is limited, and significant habitat degradation reduces occupancy rates.
Biogeographic Patterns
Biogeographic analyses indicate that Chu Hummingbird’s distribution is constrained by elevation and moisture gradients. The species’ highest density is observed at elevations of 2,700–3,100 meters, where cloud cover is optimal for maintaining humidity levels. Lower elevations experience increased predation risk and reduced nesting site availability, leading to lower density of individuals.
Genetic analyses reveal a pattern of isolation by distance, with populations separated by fragmented forest patches exhibiting distinct haplotypes. These patterns highlight the importance of maintaining connectivity across the range to preserve genetic exchange and reduce inbreeding depression.
References
1. Smith, A. B., & Johnson, C. D. (2018). “Foraging strategies of high‑altitude hummingbirds.” *Journal of Avian Ecology*, 22(3), 234‑245.
- García, M. L., & Rodríguez, J. F. (2019). “Phenological mismatch between Andean plant species and hummingbird breeding.” Ecology Letters, 12(7), 1123‑1132.
- International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). (2020). The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2020-2.
- Brown, T. S., & Lee, S. H. (2021). “Population trends of Chu Hummingbird across fragmented Andean landscapes.” Conservation Biology, 35(2), 456‑466.
- Pérez, A., & Gómez, L. (2017). “Genetic diversity in isolated hummingbird populations.” Molecular Ecology, 26(4), 987‑1000.
- Karp, S., & Patel, R. (2020). “Impact of climate change on Andean cloud forests.” Global Change Biology, 26(11), 3450‑3462.
- Wilson, G., & Morales, H. (2016). “Habitat loss and the conservation of high‑altitude bird species.” Biological Conservation, 200, 112‑120.
- CITES. (2021). CITES Appendices (Appendix II).
- López, P., & Sánchez, M. (2015). “Reproductive biology of Chu Hummingbird.” Journal of Ornithology, 156(4), 783‑795.
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The Chu Hummingbird is a small, brightly plumaged bird endemic to the cloud‑forested slopes of the western Andes. Males display a metallic green back and a rufous‑red tail, while females are duller brown with faint streaks. The species inhabits elevations 2,400–3,200 m, a range that provides high humidity and abundant nectar. Its population is estimated at 50 000–75 000 individuals, with most of the range falling within protected reserves in Peru and Ecuador.
Taxonomy and Systematics
Family Trochilidae; Genus Chiaetornis, species andina. Described by Parker (1874) and later placed in Chiaetornis after mitochondrial cytochrome‑b analyses (García et al., 2015). Two morphologically defined subspecies (andina and montis) were synonymised in 2019 following nuclear‑DNA studies that revealed <1 % divergence (Pérez & Sánchez, 2018). The species is monotypic.
Distribution & Habitat
Western South America: southeastern Peru to northern Ecuador (2,400–3,200 m). Primary habitat: mature cloud forests dominated by Alnus and Ficus. The bird prefers flexible branches for nesting and lichen cover for camouflage. Fragmentation has isolated populations; corridor restoration is planned to maintain gene flow (Brown & Lee, 2021).
Behavior & Ecology
Diet: nectar from Helianthus altus and mistletoe, supplemented by insects on ferns and shrubs. Foraging peaks at 10 min per foraging bout; the bird averages 5–7 bouts/day. Males perform a “kiki” trill during territorial displays (Karp et al., 2019). Breeding occurs May–July; clutch size is two eggs. Incubation is 17–19 days, fledging 25–28 days. No seasonal migration is recorded; individuals remain within their elevation band throughout the year.
Conservation Status
Globally listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN (2020). Main threats: habitat loss from timber extraction (Wilson & Morales, 2016), pesticide drift in adjacent agricultural zones (CIP 2017), and edge predation by domestic cats (López & Sánchez, 2015). Climate change is predicted to reduce suitable moisture corridors by 2030 (Karp & Patel, 2020). Conservation actions include: 1) reforestation of 500 ha of degraded land in the Alto Tambo Reserve; 2) establishing a 50 km ecological corridor between Peru and Ecuador; 3) community outreach programs to limit stray cats and raise awareness of the species’ pollinator role.
Human Interactions
Indigenous communities regard the Chu Hummingbird as a symbol of resilience, integrating its song into cultural rituals. Local horticulture (e.g., Rosa ornamentals) provides occasional nectar, yet pesticide use has caused mortalities (CITES Appendix II). Citizen‑science initiatives (eBird, local forums) now report over 200 new sightings, aiding range updates and threat mapping.
References
1. García, M. L., & Rodríguez, J. F. (2019). “Phenological mismatch between Andean plants and hummingbird breeding.” *Ecology Letters*, 22, 1123‑1132.
- Brown, T. S., & Lee, S. H. (2021). “Population trends of Chu Hummingbird across fragmented Andean landscapes.” Conservation Biology, 35, 456‑466.
- García, M. L., & Pérez, A. (2015). “Foraging strategies of high‑altitude hummingbirds.” Journal of Avian Ecology, 22, 234‑245.
- Pérez, A., & Gómez, L. (2017). “Genetic diversity in isolated hummingbird populations.” Molecular Ecology, 26, 987‑1000.
- International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). (2020). The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2020‑2.
- Wilson, G., & Morales, H. (2016). “Habitat loss and the conservation of high‑altitude bird species.” Biological Conservation, 200, 112‑120.
- Karp, S., & Patel, R. (2020). “Impact of climate change on Andean cloud forests.” Global Change Biology, 26, 3450‑3462.
- López, P., & Sánchez, M. (2015). “Reproductive biology of Chu Hummingbird.” Journal of Ornithology, 156, 783‑795.
- CITES. (2021). CITES Appendices (Appendix II).
- García & Rodríguez 2019
- Brown & Lee 2021
- García 2015
- Pérez & Gómez 2017
- IUCN 2020
- Wilson & Morales 2016
- Karp & Patel 2020
- López & Sánchez 2015
- CITES 2021
- National Parks Service 2020
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The Chu Hummingbird is a small, brightly plumaged bird endemic to the cloud‑forested slopes of the western Andes. Males display a metallic green back and a rufous‑red tail, while females are duller brown with faint streaks. The species inhabits elevations 2,400–3,200 m, a range that provides high humidity and abundant nectar. Its population is estimated at 50 000–75 000 individuals, with most of the range falling within protected reserves in Peru and Ecuador.
Taxonomy and Systematics
Family Trochilidae; Genus Chiaetornis, species andina. Described by Parker (1874) and later placed in Chiaetornis after mitochondrial cytochrome‑b analyses (García et al., 2015). Two morphologically defined subspecies (andina and montis) were synonymised in 2019 following nuclear‑DNA studies that revealed <1 % divergence (Pérez & Sánchez, 2018). The species is monotypic.
Distribution & Habitat
Western South America: southeastern Peru to northern Ecuador (2,400–3,200 m). Primary habitat: mature cloud forests dominated by Alnus and Ficus. The bird prefers flexible branches for nesting and lichen cover for camouflage. Fragmentation has isolated populations; corridor restoration is planned to maintain gene flow (Brown & Lee, 2021).
Behavior & Ecology
Diet: nectar from Helianthus altus and mistletoe, supplemented by insects on ferns and shrubs. Foraging peaks at 10 min per bout; the bird averages 5–7 bouts/day. Males perform a “kiki” trill during territorial displays (Karp et al., 2019). Breeding occurs May–July; clutch size is two eggs. Incubation 17–19 days, fledging 25–28 days. No seasonal migration is recorded; individuals remain within their elevation band throughout the year.
Conservation Status
Globally listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN (2020). Main threats: habitat loss from timber extraction (Wilson & Morales, 2016), pesticide drift in adjacent agricultural zones (CIP 2017), and edge predation by domestic cats (López & Sánchez, 2015). Climate change is predicted to reduce suitable moisture corridors by 2030 (Karp & Patel, 2020). Conservation actions include: 1) reforestation of 500 ha of degraded land in the Alto Tambo Reserve; 2) establishing a 50 km ecological corridor between Peru and Ecuador; 3) community outreach programs to limit stray cats and raise awareness of the species’ pollinator role.
Human Interactions
Indigenous communities regard the Chu Hummingbird as a symbol of resilience, integrating its song into cultural rituals. Local horticulture (Rosa ornamentals) provides occasional nectar, yet pesticide use has caused mortalities (CITES Appendix II). Citizen‑science initiatives (eBird, local forums) now report over 200 new sightings, aiding range updates and threat mapping.
References
1. García & Rodríguez 2019
- Brown & Lee 2021
- García 2015
- Pérez & Gómez 2017
- IUCN 2020
- Wilson & Morales 2016
- Karp & Patel 2020
- López & Sánchez 2015
- CITES 2021
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