Glittering-throated Emerald

The Glittering-throated Emerald (Chionomesa fimbriata) occurs in eastern Ecuador, where it inhabits humid lowland forests, river-edge woodlands, and shrubby second growth typically below 500 meters. Though generally uncommon in Ecuador, it is locally present in suitable semi-open habitats, often perching conspicuously and foraging at low to mid-levels. The species is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN due to its extensive Amazonian range, though its population is suspected to be slowly declining from ongoing deforestation. Natural history observations reveal a non-migratory nectarivore that supplements its diet with small insects; nesting behavior remains poorly documented but is presumed to involve moss-lined cups placed in concealed vegetation.