About Myrmia micrura (Gould, 1854)
Size and Taxonomic Context
The short-tailed woodstar (Myrmia micrura) is approximately 6 cm (2.4 in) long and weighs roughly 2.3 g (0.081 oz). Along with the gorgeted woodstar (Chaetocercus heliodor), it is one of the smallest bird species found in South America; the little woodstar (Chaetocercus bombus) is only slightly longer than the short-tailed woodstar.
Bill Structure
This species has a very short, slightly decurved black bill.
Upperparts Coloration
Both male and female short-tailed woodstars have shining green upperparts.
Male Plumage
Males have a white stripe that runs from the bill to below the eye, a glittering violet gorget, and a white breast with dingy flanks. Their very short tail has green central feathers and blackish outer feathers.
Female Plumage
Females do not have the bright violet gorget, and their underparts range from pale buffy whitish to cinnamon buff. Their tail matches the male's pattern, with the addition of white tips on the outer feathers.
Geographic Range
The short-tailed woodstar ranges from southern Manabí Province in Ecuador south through Peru to northern La Libertad Department.
Habitat Type
It lives in arid scrub, shrublands, and gardens, and it is primarily a lowland species.
Elevation Range in Ecuador
In Ecuador, it usually occurs below 200 m (660 ft), but can reach elevations of 800 m (2,600 ft) in Loja Province.
Elevation Range in Peru
In Peru, it is usually found within a few hundred meters of sea level, but occurs locally up to 1,200 m (3,900 ft).
