A new species of hummingbird from the Ecuadorian Andes, already critically endangered
A new species of hummingbird from the Ecuadorian Andes, already critically endangered
In 2017, a group of researchers working in the Ecuadorian Andes stumbled upon a species of hummingbird previously unknown but, as documented in a new study published in 'The Auk: Ornithological Advances', its small population, its specialized habitat and threats of human activity suggest that this newly described species is probably already critically endangered.
This hummingbird is different from the others, since it lives in high altitude habitats in the Andes and has special adaptations to low temperatures. Francisco Sornoza, from the National Biodiversity Institute of Ecuador, first observed and photographed a previously unknown hummingbird during fieldwork in southwestern Ecuador, in April 2017.
After this first expedition, the researcher and his colleagues Juan Freile, Elisa Bonaccorso, Jonas Nilsson and Niels Krabbe studied that possible new species, returning in May to capture other specimens and confirm the finding. They called the new species 'Oreotrochilus cyanolaemus' and blue-throated hummingbird.
This hummingbird is found only along wooded streams in an area of approximately 100 square kilometers, and researchers estimate that there are no more than 750 individuals, perhaps less than 500. Threats to its habitat include fire, grazing and mining, and meets the criteria to be considered critically endangered.
'Oreotrochilus cyanolaemus' or blue-throated hummingbird. (Photo: F. Sornoza)
"Full support from national and international conservation agencies is needed to save this species," says co-author Francisco Sornoza-Molina. "The action plan for the conservation of this bird is creating a network of protected areas throughout its geographical range," he adds.
"Hummingbirds are found in the most rugged, isolated and inaccessible parts of the Andes, they settle in caves, they feed on the ground. This surprising discovery confirms that life at the altitude of the Andes still hides many secrets, "says Christopher Witt, of the University of New Mexico, an expert on hummingbirds who was not involved in the study. "The location is suitable for a new species of hummingbird, because it is a remote mountain range that is isolated and interspersed between the ranges of two other species of hummingbird. The authors did an exhaustive job comparing the new species with its relatives ", adds the external expert. (Source: CGP / DICYT
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