Habitat:
Montane forests, forest edges, shrublands

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The Masked Flowerpiercer is a small, colorful bird from the Thraupidae family, primarily found in the montane forests of South America. It is distinguished by its bright blue plumage and the black mask around its eyes. This bird is often seen piercing flowers to feed on nectar, hence its English name "Flowerpiercer". It plays a significant role in the pollination of plants in its habitat. Although primarily frugivorous, it also consumes insects. Its presence is an indicator of the health of montane ecosystems.

Recommended lens:
400 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the Masked Flowerpiercer, it is advisable to use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture detailed images without disturbing the bird. Look for it in montane forests or near edges, where it is often active during the day. Be patient and discreet, as this bird can be suspicious. Use a tripod to stabilize your camera and adjust ISO settings to compensate for low light under the dense canopy. Take advantage of moments when it feeds on nectar to capture interesting behaviors.