Ecuadorian Hillstar

The Ecuadorian Hillstar is a high-altitude hummingbird endemic to Ecuador, found in windswept páramo between 3,500 and 5,200 meters, where it feeds on Chuquiraga shrubs and clings to flowers rather than hovering to conserve energy. Despite its restricted range, the species is listed as Least Concern due to its stable population and adaptation to harsh montane environments. Though patchily distributed, it remains locally common in suitable habitat, often seen perched on rocky outcrops or guarding nectar sources with surprising tenacity.