Heliangelus strophianus inhabits the montane cloud forests of the western Andes in Colombia and Ecuador, typically ranging in elevation from 5,900 to 9,800 feet. Its distribution is restricted to humid, moss-laden forests with abundant epiphytes and flowering shrubs. It favors areas with natural cover and is usually found in the understory or along forest edges, where it feeds on nectar from small tubular flowers, as well as insects and spiders captured midair or gleaned from foliage.

This bird measures approximately 4 inches long, with a short tail and slightly curved bill. Males display iridescent green upperparts, a glittering emerald gorget bordered by a narrow white collar, and dusky wings and tail feathers. Females differ in appearance, with less iridescence and more muted coloration on the throat. The white post-ocular stripe is a distinguishing feature in both sexes. Heliangelus strophianus exhibits a behavior called "trap-lining," where individuals follow a repeated foraging route between flowering plants. It is also known for hovering persistently at the same feeding locations and defending key nectar sources from conspecifics and other hummingbirds. The International Union for Conservation of Nature lists this species as Least Concern. Photographed in north-western Ecuador.