The neighbouring heights of Chimborazo and Pichincha are adorned with
two beautiful little creatures, well called "Hill Stars;" and it is
curious that the hill star of Chimborazo never visits Pichincha, nor
does the latter ever approach Chimborazo. They are very like each
other; but while that of Chimborazo has a triangular green spot upon the
throat, it is wanting in the Pichincha hill star. The colour of the
upper part of the Chimborazian hill star is of a somewhat dark
olive-green, except the wings, which are of a purple-brown tint. The
under parts are white; but they deepen into a dusky black upon the under
tail-coverts. The head and throat are of the most glorious blue, with
the exception of the before-mentioned emerald-green patch on the centre
of the throat, which is of a triangular form, one angle pointing
upwards. It has a broad collar of velvety black round the neck, the
dark hues of the head contrasting curiously with the dark body. In the
tail there are two white feathers, edged with greenish-black. The hen
is of a more sombre hue, having an olive-green head, and the throat
white, spotted with green.