Even among the vibrant tapestry of birds that call Costa Rica home, the Blue-tailed Hummingbird stands out as a jewel. This dazzling emerald creature is a common sight in the foothills and lowlands around our mountain retreat, flitting between flowers and adding a touch of magic to the rainforest symphony.
A Spark of Color
The Blue-tailed Hummingbird, also known as the Saucerottia cyanura, lives up to its name with a breathtaking display of color. Males boast a crown and back of the deepest metallic green, seolah rumput zamrud yang berkilauan (like shimmering emerald grass). This brilliance extends to their underparts, although a hint of steel blue creeps in towards the undertail coverts. The true showstopper, however, is the tail. A flash of dark, metallic violet-blue feathers creates a dazzling contrast against the green, making them impossible to miss as they flit from bloom to bloom.
Females, while lacking the males’ mesmerizing emerald sheen, are no slouches in the beauty department. They share the same deep blue tail, but their overall plumage is a more subdued green, transitioning to a grayish belly. Both sexes have a black bill with a hint of red at the base of the lower mandible, though this subtle detail can be tricky to spot in the flurry of movement.
A Master of the Hover
Hummingbirds are renowned for their incredible aerial abilities, and the Blue-tailed Hummingbird is no exception. Their wings beat at an astonishing rate, allowing them to hover in mid-air as they sip nectar from flowers. This impressive feat is fueled by their high metabolism, which requires them to consume constantly throughout the day.
Watching a Blue-tailed Hummingbird at a feeder or flower is a mesmerizing experience. They dart and hover with incredible precision, their tiny bodies defying gravity as they flit from blossom to blossom. Their long, slender bills are perfectly adapted for reaching deep into flowers to access the sweet nectar within.
A Forest Friend
The Blue-tailed Hummingbird prefers the edges of forests, woodlands, and even coffee plantations, making them frequent visitors to the grounds surrounding our retreat. They are particularly fond of flowering trees and bushes, where they find a constant supply of food.
These little hummers play a vital role in the rainforest ecosystem. As they flit from flower to flower, they act as pollinators, ensuring the continued health and reproduction of many plant species. Their frenetic activity adds a touch of life and energy to the rainforest, and their vibrant colors are a constant source of delight for birdwatchers.
A Tiny Jewel in the Rainforest Crown
The Blue-tailed Hummingbird is a captivating resident of the Costa Rican rainforests. Their iridescent plumage, incredible aerial skills, and vital ecological role make them a true wonder to behold. Whether you spot them from your balcony at our retreat or encounter them on a rainforest hike, these tiny jewels are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Keep an eye out for these dazzling hummers during your stay at our mountain retreat. You might just be lucky enough to witness their aerial acrobatics and vibrant beauty firsthand!
For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica
