North American sicklebill (SciiFii)

The North American sicklebill (Eutoxeres floridanus) is a species of hummingbird, most closely related to the white-tipped sicklebill (Eutoxeres aquila), that originally did not exist, but has since been created by SciiFii and introduced throughout the rainforests, wetlands, forests, and open woodlands across North America to help boost biodiversity. With a total length of 5–6 inches (13–15 centimeters) and weighing 0.28–0.44 oz (7.9–12.5 grams), it is a relatively large hummingbird. Males and females are virtually identical, differing only in size (especially wing measurements), with the females being some 20% smaller. Its upperparts are iridescent dull brownish, while the underparts are whitish, densely streaked with dusky. The neck-side has a relatively faint blue patch. The tips of the rectrices (tail feathers) are white, and there is a naked stripe on top of the head (but this is usually concealed). The most conspicuous features, however, are those the common name refers to: the bill is strongly decurved, and the outer three rectrices on each side are deep buff, best visible from below. Immature birds have light-tipped remiges (pinions), hardly any blue on the neck, and lack the naked crown stripe. Hatchlings have black skin and grey down. The North American sicklebills are non-migratory. The peculiar bill is an adaption to the shape of certain kinds of flowers. It feeds mainly by trap-lining. In addition to nectar, it will also catch small arthropods. The two or three white eggs are laid in a nest which is attached to the underside of a leaf, a few yards/meters above ground. Only the female incubates; the incubation period is 16–18 days and the young fledge 22–24 days after hatching. They start to breed when they are 1–2 years old. The conservation status of the North American sicklebill is Least Concern due to successful conservation efforts, the North American sicklebill's wide range and its tolerance to many of the human activities.
Category:Animals
Category:Species
Category:SciiFii