Green Thorntail
Heliangelus strophianus
Trochilidae - Hummingbirds
Heliangelus strophianus
Trochilidae - Hummingbirds
The Green Thorntail is a localized hummingbird in Ecuador, found mainly along both Andean slopes from about 500 to 1,800 m in humid foothill and montane forests. It is generally uncommon but can be seen at forest edges and clearings, where it hovers at flowers to feed on nectar and occasionally takes small insects. The species is currently assessed as Least Concern by the IUCN, though ongoing deforestation in foothill forests may cause local declines. Its glittering green plumage and distinctive long, spiky tail feathers make it one of the most striking small hummingbirds in Ecuador’s avifauna.