Blue-backed Conebill Conirostrum sitticolor Scientific name definitions

The Blue-backed Conebill is a rather widely distributed Conirostrum of the Andean region, it being found from western Venezuela south, principally over the east slope, to west-central Bolivia. It is usually found at elevations between 2500 and 3500 m, in montane forest and its borders. The species is usually found in pairs or small (presumably family) groups that regularly join mixed-species foraging flocks, wherein it draws the observer’s attention not only for its attractive plumage but their habit of perching in the open. The sexes are basically identical, distinguished from other conebills by their very clear-cut patterned plumage, being deep, bright blue above as far as the nape and (in some regions) the post-ocular supercilium, with a deep black crown, face and throat, and otherwise rufous-red underparts. The bill is typical of the genus, being sharply pointed.

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Editor's Note: Additional distribution information for this taxon can be found in the 'Subspecies' article above. In the future we will develop a range-wide distribution article.

Not globally threatened (Least Concern). Uncommon to fairly common. Can be found in numerous protected areas, among them Sierra Nevada and Tamá National Parks (Venezuela), Chingaza, Puracé, Los Nevados (Tolima) and Nevado de Huila National Parks (Colombia), Cajas, Sangay and Podocarpus National Parks (Ecuador), Tingo Maria and Manu Parks (Peru), and Madidi National Park (Bolivia). This species’ range also includes a considerable extent of suitable habitat that is not protected, but is at relatively low risk in the short term. Most serious long-term risk is deforestation.