Crimson Topaz

Topaza pella

Hummingbirds · Apodiformes · Rare

The Crimson Topaz (Topaza pella) is a rare hummingbird found in 5 countries, weighing about 12 g. The crimson topaz is a species of hummingbird in the family Trochilidae.

Least ConcernRareEats nectarforestcup nest12 g

About the Crimson Topaz

The crimson topaz is a species of hummingbird in the family Trochilidae. It is found in Brazil, French Guiana, Guyana, Suriname, and Venezuela.

Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.

How to identify it

The male crimson topaz is 21 to 23 cm (8.3 to 9.1 in) long including the 5 cm (2.0 in) bill and 8.6 to 12 cm (3.4 to 4.7 in) tail, and weighs 11 to 18 g (0.39 to 0.63 oz). Females are 13 to 14 cm (5.1 to 5.5 in) long and weigh 9 to 12.5 g (0.32 to 0.44 oz). It may be the second largest species of hummingbird after the giant hummingbird, rivaled only by its cousin, the fiery topaz. Male and female crimson topaz have different plumages. Both have a straight to slightly decurved bill. The male's head, face, and the sides of the neck are velvety black. Voice: The crimson topaz's song is an "irregular series of chattering 'chip' notes given almost continually (other than breaks to feed) throughout the day." It often sings from a perch in the canopy and may make short flights out and back to the same perch between songs.

Where it lives

When to see it

The Crimson Topaz can be seen all year round, with peak activity in November. It is a resident species across most of its range.

Easily confused with

Quick questions

How do you identify a Crimson Topaz?
The male crimson topaz is 21 to 23 cm (8.3 to 9.1 in) long including the 5 cm (2.0 in) bill and 8.6 to 12 cm (3.4 to 4.7 in) tail, and weighs 11 to 18 g (0.39 to 0.63 oz). Full identification notes are on this page.
How big is a Crimson Topaz?
The Crimson Topaz is a tiny sized bird weighing about 12 g.
Where can you see a Crimson Topaz?
The Crimson Topaz occurs in 5 countries, including Brazil, Guyana, Venezuela, Suriname and French Guiana.
What birds look similar to a Crimson Topaz?
The Crimson Topaz is most easily confused with the Fiery Topaz.
Is the Crimson Topaz endangered?
The Crimson Topaz is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Learn the Crimson Topaz for real

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