Bird · GBIF taxon 2476817
Green-backed Firecrown
Sephanoides sephaniodesAlso known as Picaflor Chico, Chilean Firecrown
Green-backed firecrowns are the southernmost hummingbirds in the world, thriving across Patagonian temperate forests where males flash brilliant ruby-red iridescent crowns during courtship display. They serve as essential ecosystem pollinators for nearly one fifth of local woody plant species, feeding on rich nectar alongside tiny arthropods. During harsh winter months, these adaptable birds migrate northward or enter brief nocturnal torpor to conserve energy in frigid weather.
PollinatorMigratoryIridescent
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Plant Nectar
- Small Insects
- Spiders
Predators
- Austral Pygmy Owl
- Chilean Hawk
- Domestic Cat
ThreatsDeforestation, invasive predators, extreme weather events
HabitatsTemperate rainforests, Andean forest edges, Valdivian woodlands, gardens
Life span3–6 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyTrochilidae
- SpeciesSephanoides sephaniodes
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
- Garden Visitors: Plant native red tubed flowers like copihue to attract them during spring.
- Observing Iridescence: Stand with the sun directly behind you to glimpse the male's flashing crown color.
- Avoid Disturbance: Maintain distance around mossy cup nests hidden in dense understory foliage.
Pollinator Partner (c) John Barkla, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by John Barkla · cc-by
Nectar Source Predator Close Relative
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