Andean Hillstar

Common name: Andean Hillstar
Scientific name: Oreotrochilus estella
Clades: Lesbiini - Coquettes

Let's break down Oreotrochilus estella:

1. Oreotrochilus: This is the genus name, derived from two Greek words:

   • "Oreo" (ὄρος), meaning "mountain" or "mountainous," and

   • "trochilus" (τροχίλος), meaning "a small bird" or "hummingbird."

   The name Oreotrochilus likely refers to a type of hummingbird that is typically found in mountainous areas. It highlights the bird’s habitat in high-altitude regions.

2. Estella: This is the species name, and it is a Latinized form of the name "Estella," which can be a given name meaning "star" in Spanish. The name may symbolize the bird’s brilliance or striking appearance, possibly referring to its radiant plumage or the way it stands out in its mountainous environment.

Therefore, Oreotrochilus estella can be interpreted as "the mountain hummingbird, the star" or "the star of the mountains." This name emphasizes both the bird's mountainous habitat and its bright, eye-catching appearance.

The Andean Hillstar Male features a medium-sized, slightly decurved black bill that complements its overall appearance. Its plumage is drab brown above, strikingly contrasting with a very shiny emerald-green gorget adorned with a black border. Below, this hummingbird is mostly white, accentuated by a distinctive rufous median line running along its belly. The tail is forked and presents a striking white color, with the central feather pair being particularly notable. In contrast, the outer edge and the tips of the lateral feathers exhibit a bronzy black hue.

In comparison, the Female is more drabber below, characterized by a finely speckled throat, and her tail takes on a greenish-black tone, with the outer three to four feathers showcasing white inner webs at both the base and tip. Juveniles tend to be more greyish overall, featuring a yellow base to their mandible, while the immature males display a dark glaucous gorget. Interestingly, males of the race bolivianus exhibit a median line on their belly that is chestnut spotted with black, adding to the diversity within the species.

Geographically, the Andean Hillstar is primarily found in the high-altitude regions of the Andes mountains, stretching from Peru, Bolivia, and into northern Chile and Argentina. These birds inhabit paramo and alpine scrub environments, typically at elevations between 3,000 to 5,000 meters, making them well-adapted to the harsh conditions of their mountainous habitats. The Andean Hillstar's presence in these rugged terrains further underscores its resilience and adaptability in environmental challenges.

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