Rufous-breasted Hermit

Overview

The rufous-breasted hermit, also known as the hairy hermit (Glaucis hirsutus), is a hummingbird that breeds from Panama south to Bolivia and on the Caribbean islands of Trinidad, Tobago, and Grenada. It is a widespread and generally common species, although local populations may fluctuate and disappear in marginal habitats.

Identification

• A small hummingbird measuring 10.7 cm in length and weighing approximately 7 g.
• Brownish head with bronze-green upperparts and rufous underparts.
• Tail features green central feathers and rufous outer feathers, all tipped with white.
• Long, thin, and strongly decurved bill that is black on the upper mandible with a yellow lower mandible; males possess yellow streaking on the upper mandible.
• Emits a high-pitched, sweet call.

Habitat

This species inhabits forest undergrowth, frequently situated near running water such as streams, waterfalls, or roadsides. Its range extends from Panama through western Colombia, Venezuela, and the Guianas to Brazil and northern Bolivia, as well as the islands of Grenada, Trinidad, and Tobago.

Diet

The rufous-breasted hermit feeds on nectar from a variety of understory flowers and consumes some small invertebrates. It exhibits highly discriminating feeding habits, visiting only flowers whose corolla length and curvature precisely match its bill, favouring plants from families such as Zingiberales, Gentianales, Lamiales, and Myrtales.

Did you know?

The female's eggs are exceptionally small, with two eggs weighing just 0.3 grammes each that fit inside a male wedding ring, and the species may nest up to four times in a single season.