Image via Macaulay Library
Greater Flowerpiercer
- Scientific name
- Diglossa major
- Family
- Thraupidae
- Conservation status
- Least concern
- Habitat
- Forest mixed
- Wing shape
- Pointed
- Tail shape
- Notched
Where it came from
The Greater Flowerpiercer, Diglossa major, is a member of the tanager family native to the tepuis of the Guiana Highlands in South America. Identified by its distinctively pointed wings and notched tail, this species evolved within the isolated, sky-island environments of Venezuela, Brazil, and Guyana. Ornithologically, it represents the specialized evolutionary niche of the Diglossa genus, which developed unique, hook-tipped bills to pierce the base of flowers to reach nectar without engaging in pollination.
The species was formally described in the mid-19th century as part of the broader cataloging of Andean and highland biodiversity. Its design, characterized by deep slate-gray plumage, reflects the specialized adaptations required for life at high elevations. It remains a subject of study for avian researchers interested in how distinct morphology, such as its specific bill structure, allows for survival in resource-limited, high-altitude tropical ecosystems.
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 Greater Flowerpiercer
Greater Flowerpiercer 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 Greater Flowerpiercer on collecto.rs?
Greater Flowerpiercer 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 Greater Flowerpiercer?
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 Greater Flowerpiercer catalog entry come from?
The catalog entry for Greater Flowerpiercer 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
