In a remarkable feat, scientists have captured a rare individual of the Green Honeycreeper, a species known for its distinct sexual dimorphism. Typically, the females of these birds boast a green plumage, while the males flaunt a vibrant blue hue. However, a photograph has emerged, showcasing a unique individual adorned in a striking combination of blue and green plumages—an indication of possessing traits from both genders.
Amateur ornithologist John Murillo captured this captivating image within a Colombian nature reserve. Zoologist Hamish Spencer from the University of Otago in New Zealand analyzed the photograph, confirming the bird’s dual-sex characteristics. Spencer’s conviction stems from personal encounters and studies of this specific bird during his visits to Colombia.
This individual noticeably avoids interactions with their counterparts despite sharing behavioral similarities with other Green Honeycreepers. While its kind responds reciprocally, they, too, refrain from forming companionships.
“Our bird has never been seen in a pair, so I think it’s unlikely to leave offspring. But this is just an assumption,” stated Hamish Spencer, a zoologist from the University of Otago in New Zealand.
This is a rare example of bilateral gynandromorphism, where one side of an organism displays male characteristics. In contrast, the other side exhibits female traits—a phenomenon observed in various animal groups, especially those where males and females showcase significant external differences.
This marks only the second documented case within Chlorophanes spiza. The previous encounter with such a bird was over a century ago, in 1914.
