Purple-throated Mountain-gem
Common name: Purple-throated Mountain-gem
Scientific name: Lampornis calolaemus
Clades: Lampornithini - Mountain-gems
The Purple-throated mountain-gem is 10 to 11.5 cm (3.9 to 4.5 in) long and weighs 4.5 to 6 g (0.16 to 0.21 oz).
The Purple-throated Mountain-gem is a stunning medium-sized avian specimen that never fails to captivate the observer with its vibrant colors and delicate grace. Among the males, one can observe a breathtaking display of a bright purple throat, complemented by a regal blue crown and a striking white line extending behind the eye. In contrast, the female of the species, while not as vibrant as its male counterpart, possesses an undeniable allure with its bright buffy underparts, adorned with black cheeks and a captivating white line trailing behind the eye. It is worth noting that the female shares a resemblance with the female White-bellied Mountain-gem; however, a distinctive greener tail sets her apart, demanding a keen eye and a close examination for accurate identification.
Habitat and Behavior:
The Purple-throated Mountain-gem is a creature of the forest, typically found amidst middle elevations. Despite its affinity for wooded landscapes, this enigmatic bird occasionally makes appearances at the edges of forests and even in gardens, gracing these environments with its ethereal presence. A particularly endearing quality of this species is its penchant for visiting feeders, allowing fortunate observers to witness its beauty up close.
Encountering the Purple-throated Mountain-gem in its natural habitat is a privilege afforded to those with a keen eye for detail and an appreciation for the natural world. It serves as a poignant reminder of the astonishing diversity and splendor of the avian kingdom.
3 subspecies:
L. c. pectoralis
Distribution extreme S Nicaragua to NW Costa Rica (Cordillera de Guanacaste).L. c. calolaemus
Distribution Cordillera Central and extreme N Cordillera de Talamanca (C Costa Rica).L. c. homogenes
Distribution Pacific slope of S Costa Rica (probably) and W Panama (from C Chiriquí to Coclé).
