Amethyst Woodstar

The Amethyst Woodstar is found in South America east of the Andes from Venezuela to northern Argentina. It is one of the smallest hummingbirds. The Amethyst Woodstar's scientific name is Calliphlox amethystina. The Amethyst Woodstar is very small, has short wings, and is one of the most proficient fliers in the hummingbird world. Its wing beats have been measured at 80 beats per second for the male and 70 beats per second for the (slightly larger) female, giving her a slightly lower humming note. Its heartbeat has also been measured at 20 beats per second or 1,200 beats per minute!

Description

Although the Amethyst Woodstar cannot be found in forest interiors, it can usually be found in a wide variety of habitats including gardens. The male hummingbird has a black bill and a forked tail. He has an amethyst throat with a white band across the chest. The female has whitish on her stomach, green spots on her throat, and a short tail.