Brown Violetear

Overview

The brown violetear (Colibri delphinae) is a large hummingbird that breeds at middle elevations in the mountains of Central America and western and northern South America. Isolated populations are also found on Trinidad and in the Brazilian state of Bahia.

Identification

• Primarily dull brown plumage with a rufous rump and greyer underparts.
• Distinctive violet patch running back and down from the eye, along with a glittering green and blue throat stripe.
• Measures approximately 11.5 cm in length and weighs between 6.5 and 7 g, featuring a relatively short and almost straight bill.
• Song consists of a vigorous repetition of a 'chit' call, often delivered by several dozen males in loose leks.

Habitat

Breeding habitat consists of forest at altitudes between 400 and 1600 m, though the species spreads widely into lowlands when not nesting. It is typically found high in the canopy of rainforests, tall second growth, and coffee plantations, but will feed at lower levels in edges and clearings.

Diet

Feeds on nectar from small flowers of trees, shrubs, and epiphytes, while also catching insects in flight (hawking) as an essential protein source. Although not particularly territorial, the species is highly aggressive and frequently attacks other hummingbirds at feeders rather than feeding itself.

Did you know?

At feeders, the brown violetear often spends far more time attacking other hummingbirds than actually feeding.