Nature is home to many birds with shimmering iridescent plumage. One such extraordinary species is the rainbow-bearded thornbill. As the name suggests, this bird’s face is adorned with vibrant colors, making it a sight to behold in the wild.
The rainbow-bearded thornbill’s head features dark green feathers with a rufous crest on top, while white dots sit just behind each eye.
Upon closer inspection, its throat showcases a mesmerizing mix of celadon-green, turquoise, yellow, red, and pink. Its long, dark purple tail stands out with striking white tips at the corners.
Watch the video at the end.
Females of this species look similar to their male counterparts but are slightly less vibrant. They have a yellowish-ochre hue on their belly and tail and lack the stunning beard found on males and young birds.
Part of the Trochilidae family, the rainbow-bearded thornbill can be found in Ecuador, Colombia, and Peru.
They inhabit subtropical or tropical high-altitude grasslands, elfin forests, open countryside with bushy patches, small woodlands, and gullies filled with ferns and bromeliads.
During the breeding season, female rainbow-bearded thornbills construct cup-shaped nests in bushes, shrubs, or trees using woven plant fibers, green moss, soft plant fibers, animal hair, and feathers.
They lay three eggs, incubate them, and care for the hatchlings for 7-10 days until they fledge.
These captivating hummingbirds primarily feed on nectar from small flowers, low bushes, and shrubs, but they also consume insects occasionally.
If you’re fascinated by these magnificent little birds, share this article with your family and friends to spread the wonder of nature.
Watch the video below:
Via: One Big Birdcage