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Tyrian metaltail

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description Tyrian metaltail Overview

The Tyrian metaltail is a small hummingbird in the genus Metallura that inhabits the Andes from Venezuela and Colombia south through Ecuador and Peru to Bolivia. It typically occupies humid montane forest edges, scrub, and high-elevation vegetation, where it feeds on flower nectar and small arthropods. The species varies geographically across several recognized subspecies and is identified in part by its compact form, short bill, and metallic tail coloration.

help Tyrian metaltail FAQ

What is the scientific name of the Tyrian metaltail?

Its scientific name is Metallura tyrianthina, a hummingbird in the metaltail genus Metallura. The species authority is Loddiges, 1832, while modern bird guides use Tyrian Metaltail in English. [Avian Systematics checklist](https://www.aviansystematics.org/checklist?viewfamilies=80)

Which countries does the Tyrian metaltail inhabit?

Its Andean range runs through Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia. It is not a lowland garden hummingbird: records place it in mountain forests, scrub, and forest edges across that north-to-central Andean range. [Aves del Ecuador](https://bioweb.bio/faunaweb/avesweb/FichaEspecie/Metallura%20tyrianthina)

How can I tell a Tyrian metaltail from a Scaled metaltail?

Field guides point to the Tyrian's metallic tail and shorter bill as useful clues, although tail color varies among subspecies. The Scaled Metaltail overlaps parts of the range, so location and the full plumage pattern matter more than one quick glance. [Peru Aves](https://www.peruaves.org/trochilidae/tyrian-metaltail-metallura-tyrianthina/)

What does the Tyrian metaltail eat and where does it live?

Like other hummingbirds, it feeds on flower nectar and is associated with humid montane forest edges, scrub, and high-elevation vegetation. Ecuador records place Metallura tyrianthina roughly around 2,300 to 3,400 meters, with some records higher. [Aves del Ecuador](https://bioweb.bio/faunaweb/avesweb/FichaEspecie/Metallura%20tyrianthina)

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