Genus Topaza Higher classification Topaz | Phylum Chordata Family Trochilidae Scientific name Topaza pella Rank Species | |
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Similar Topaz, Hummingbird, Bird, Fiery topaz, Fork‑tailed woodnymph | ||
Crimsom Topaz.wmv
Crimson topaz hummingbird
Subspecies
Subspecies within this species include:
Distribution
This species can be found in Brazil, Colombia, French Guiana, Guyana, Peru, Suriname, and Venezuela.
Habitat
Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests up to 500 m. They live in the upper and middle canopy, and are rarely seen on the ground.
Description
Topaza pella can reach a length of 21–23 centimetres (8.3–9.1 in) in males (including bill abt. 5 cm and tail abt. 12 cm), while females reach 13–14 centimetres (5.1–5.5 in). Both males and females weigh about 10 grams. It may be the second largest species of hummingbird after the giant hummingbird.
The male crimson topaz is notably larger and, with iridescent crimson plumage and sparkling green throat, more spectacular-looking than the female. Belly and breast are metallic orange-red. The wings are brown and are maroon in the lower part. The long tail coverts are golden green. They have short, slightly curved beaks that allow them to feed from a variety of exotic plants.
Biology
These hummingbirds mainly feed on nectar of flowering trees in the canopy of the forest (Bromeliaceae and Ericaceae).
