Chilean Woodstar

Common name: Chilean Woodstar
Scientific name: Eulidia yarrellii
Clades: Mellisugini - Bees

The Chilean Woodstar is one of the most critically endangered hummingbird species, with about 300 individuals remaining. This micro-endemic hummingbird is found exclusively in the arid desert of northern Chile, particularly favoring native desert scrub in lowland valleys. Unfortunately, intensive agriculture has led to its elimination from most areas. Males are often detected by the insect-like buzz produced by their wings in flight and can be seen perching conspicuously atop bushes and on wires.

The Chilean Woodstar holds the title of the smallest bird in Chile. Both sexes feature a short black bill. The adult male dazzles with iridescent olive green upperparts and a striking reddish-purple and blue gorget, which often appears blackish. His underparts are white, and his tail is a mix of very short green central feathers and longer, inward-curving blackish-brown outer feathers.

Females share the male's olive green upperparts but are mostly very pale buff below, with the darkest coloration on the belly and thighs. Their tail is short and slightly graduated, with green central feathers and black outer feathers that have buff bases and wide white tips.

Immature males resemble females but can be distinguished by their mottled throats and sometimes elongated outer tail feathers.