Sparkling Violetear

In Ecuador, the Sparkling Violetear is a widespread and conspicuous hummingbird of highland regions, thriving from roughly 1,700 to 4,500 meters in a range of semi-open habitats including forest edges, gardens, city parks, and páramo scrub. It is often the most common hummingbird in urban areas like Quito, where its aggressive territorial behavior and loud vocalizations make it especially noticeable. The species is classified as Least Concern due to its extensive Andean distribution and stable population trend. Adapted to high elevations, it exhibits extreme nighttime torpor to conserve energy, with physiological traits suited to cold, oxygen-poor environments.