New Hummingbird Species Discovered

Posted by Rosemary Drisdelle May 16, 2007

The Gorgeted Puffleg, Eriocnemis isabellae, lives in the Serrania del Pinche Mountains of Columbia, in a small area of montane forest. Scientists surveying the area for new species saw the hummingbird in 2005 and were able to get pictures for identification. Now it’s confirmed: the bird is a new species of puffleg (hummingbirds with white tufts of feathers at the top of the legs). The formal description and species designation of the Gorgeted Puffleg will be published in the scientific journal Ornitologica Neotropical in May, 2007.

Because Eriocnemis isabellae has such a small range, it is already considered a threatened species. The land is under threat from traditional slash and burn agriculture and also from coca growers who feed the demand for cocaine. Conservation organizations are pushing for the establishment of a nature reserve.

Read more about hummingbirds:

Hummingbirds are Migrating

Facts About Hummingbirds

Hummingbird Nests

Sources:

The Hummingbird Conservancy. “Stunning New Hummingbird Species Needs Immediate Protection.”