In the same district, invariably keeping at the bottom of the valleys,
is found the Columbian thorn-bill. It does not even mount, as do many
humming-birds, to the tops of the trees, but seeks its food among the
low, flowering shrubs. It is of a golden green colour on the upper
parts, and of a dull green below; except on its curious tuft, which
hangs from the chin, and is of a light green at the base, and a
purple-red towards the points. The wings are of a purple-brown hue, as
is the tail, with a bronzed gloss, while the under tail-coverts are
brown-yellow. It is curious that the hen, though in other respects like
the male, has no beard.