Genus EnsiferaLesson, 1843 Higher classification Ensifera Rank Species | Family Trochilidae Scientific name Ensifera ensifera Phylum Chordata | |
Similar Giant hummingbird, Booted racket‑tail, Collared inca, Violetear, Long‑tailed sylph | ||
Sword billed hummingbird
The sword-billed hummingbird (Ensifera ensifera) is a species of hummingbird from South America and the sole member of the genus Ensifera. It is found at higher elevations (mostly above 2,500 m or 8,200 ft) in Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Venezuela.
Contents
- Sword billed hummingbird
- Sword billed hummingbird ensifera ensifera urrao w andes
- Etymology
- Description
- References
Sword billed hummingbird ensifera ensifera urrao w andes
Etymology
The genus and species name ensifera ("sword-wielder") is derived from Latin ensis (sword) and ferre (to carry), and refers to this hummingbird's remarkable beak length.
Description
It is noted as the only species of bird to have a bill longer than the rest of its body. This adaptation is to feed on flowers with long corollas such as Passiflora mixta. The tongue is therefore also unusually long.
Since the sword-billed hummingbird's beak is very long, it preens itself with its feet. From base of the bill to the tail tip, this species averages 14 cm (5 1⁄2 in) in length, not counting the over 10 cm (4 in) bill. This hummingbird weighs about 10–15 g (0.35–0.53 oz) and is one of the largest species of hummingbirds.
