Chuquiraga jussieui has an iconic inflorescence – so huge and conspicuous. How is it able to make such a huge infloresence at this altitude and with seemingly so little nutrition? This specimen was located in the Antisana Ecological Reserve.
During my brief visit only a very few were in bloom, which made me wonder how the Ecuadorian Hillstar (Oreotrochilus chimborazo) finds food at this time, as this flower is the most important source of food.
I saw it briefly on one in bloom and was unable to get a photo this time, as a hailstorm swooped in with strong winds. The Hillstar will not share the flowers and any intruder is forcefully sent off.
How a hummingbird can thrive at this altitude is simply incredible!
It’s found in norwestern South America
Altitude 4200 metres.
Ecuador
-0.492576,-78.200855
Last updated on 8 November 2024
