Buffy Helmetcrest Oxypogon stuebelii

Large, short-billed hummingbird found only at extremely high elevations in Colombia’s central Andes. Adult male’s green and blue beard, black and buff head pattern, and shaggy crest make him easily recognizable within his tiny world range. Female and younger males lack the crest and beard and have more subdued coloration, but they are still recognizable from their large size and relatively tiny bill. Often seen feeding from or perching on Espeletia plants. Espeletia, also known as Frailejón, is native to high Andean grasslands; it is characterized by its short, trunk-like stem, large, elongated leaves, and small, yellow flowers.