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Endangered Species Guide
Endangered Birds

PURPLE-BACKED SUNBEAM (Aglaeactis aliciae)
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Description: The purple-backed sunbeam is a hummingbird with slate-brown plumage speckled with purple iridescence. Like all hummingbirds, it is small with a long pointed bill and amazing flying skills. It is only found in a small area of forest in western Peru and its population is in decline. The purple-backed sunbeam is threatened by loss of habitat owing to the conversion of their alder woodland habitat to eucalyptus groves.

IUCN Status: Critically Endangered
Major Threat: Loss and degradation of habitat
Habitat: Alder woodland
Location: Western Peru
Diet: Nectar

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