Another "Crown Jewel of the Incas" ECUADOR (Jan. '11)

Here is another of Tandayapa Lodge's all star cast of hummingbirds. This glistening green gem is the Western Emerald, a tiny green hummer that is only found in western Ecuador and western Colombia. The species used to be considered part of the widespread Blue-tailed Emerald, although is now recognized as a full species in its own right. It is pretty common at Tandayapa, and makes for a great photo subject as they often sit still for long periods like this one (unlike many other hummers that are constantly fidgeting and are bundles of nervous energy!)

More from Tandayapa shortly-this time NOT a hummer!...