Fiery-throated Hummingbird

Overview

The fiery-throated hummingbird (Panterpe insignis) is a species of hummingbird found in Costa Rica and Panama. It is the only member of the genus Panterpe and is assessed as Least Concern by the IUCN.

Identification

• Size: 10.5 to 11 cm in length, with males weighing 5.9–6.2 g and females 4.9–5.2 g.
• Plumage: The nominate subspecies features a glittering royal blue crown, a brilliant rosy coppery orange throat centre, and a violet-blue breast patch.
• Markings: Both sexes have a small white spot behind the eye, and males and females are alike within each subspecies.
• Calls: Vocalisations include a repeated nasal, squeaky 'kek...kek...' in a fast series, or a complex fast liquid twittering with sudden squeaky rises in pitch.

Habitat

Found in Costa Rica and Panama, this species inhabits a variety of wooded landscapes including montane forest, cloudforest, and elfin forest, as well as more open areas like the lower edge of páramo and secondary forest. It typically remains in the forest canopy but descends to shrubs at the forest edge and in clearings.

Diet

This bird feeds on nectar from small flowers, including epiphytic Ericaceae, bromeliads, shrubs, and small trees, sometimes accessing nectar through holes made by itself or other species. It also captures small arthropods on the wing or by gleaning from foliage.

Did you know?

The species is highly aggressive and dominant over most other hummingbirds, with males defending feeding territories during the breeding season while allowing females to feed.