Image via Macaulay Library
Black Metaltail
- Scientific name
- Metallura phoebe
- Family
- Trochilidae
- Conservation status
- Least concern
- Habitat
- Shrubland
- Wing shape
- Pointed
- Tail shape
- Notched
Where it came from
The Black Metaltail, scientifically classified as Metallura phoebe, is a hummingbird species endemic to the arid slopes of the western Andes in Peru. It was first described by the ornithologist John Gould in 1863, during a period of intense European exploration into South American biodiversity. The species was cataloged as part of Gould's broader efforts to classify the unique avian life of the high-altitude scrublands, where these birds have evolved specialized behaviors to survive in rugged, rocky environments.
The design of the Black Metaltail is defined by its evolutionary adaptation to its niche, characterized by a distinctively notched, iridescent tail that shimmers with metallic hues. Its pointed wing shape facilitates the rapid, precise flight necessary for navigating the sparse, high-altitude vegetation where it forages for nectar. While it remains a subject of ongoing study for ornithologists, its survival is closely linked to the preservation of its limited geographic range in the rain-shadowed valleys of the Peruvian Andes.
Written by Pi, the helpful collecto.rs AI
Who's collecting this
Real birds collectors on collecto.rs who have this in their public collection.
About Black Metaltail
Black Metaltail is a bird in the Birdwatching catalog on collecto.rs. Catalog data is sourced from eBird. No public birds collectors track this one yet — adding yours would make you the first on collecto.rs.
How many collectors track Black Metaltail on collecto.rs?
Black Metaltail doesn't have any public collectors on collecto.rs yet. Sign up to add it and become the first.
Can I track my own copy of Black Metaltail?
Yes. collecto.rs is free — sign up to log your bird, upload photos, record condition, edition, and acquisition cost, and connect with other birdwatching collectors. Your collection stays private by default.
Where does the Black Metaltail catalog entry come from?
The catalog entry for Black Metaltail is sourced from eBird. Catalog-level facts stay consistent across every collector; your own data (condition, edition, acquisition notes) is yours.
Is collecto.rs birds tracking free?
Yes. Tracking your birds is free — no paid tier required to catalog items, upload photos, or share your collection.
Track every bird you own
Free. Fun. Collection photos, notes, organization, value tracking, friends — all in one place.
Sign up free
