Long-tailed Sylph

In Ecuador, the Long-tailed Sylph inhabits humid montane and cloud forests on both Andean slopes, typically ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 meters elevation. It is a fairly common resident in suitable habitat, especially in forest edges and clearings where males display their iridescent plumage and elongated tails during territorial flights. Though its population is suspected to be declining due to habitat degradation, particularly from mining and deforestation, it remains classified as Least Concern owing to its broad Andean range. The species exhibits altitudinal movements and plays a role in pollination, feeding primarily on nectar and small arthropods.