Even amidst the vibrant tapestry of birds that call Costa Rica home, the Brown Violetear (Colibri delphinae) manages to stand out. This dazzling hummingbird, a regular visitor to our mountain retreat, isn’t shy about showcasing its dazzling plumage.
While “brown” is present in its name, it’s truly a misnomer. This feathered jewel is a captivating mix of colors. Imagine a base of rich, chocolate brown feathers accented with a fiery rufous rump and a subtle shimmer of grey on its underparts. But the true stars of the show are the dazzling violet patch extending from behind the eye and the mesmerizing emerald green patch adorning its throat. This throat patch, called a gorget, shimmers and changes color depending on the angle of light, creating a breathtaking spectacle.
A Sizable Hummingbird
The Brown Violetear isn’t your average tiny hummingbird. At an average length of 11.5 centimeters and a weight of 6.5-7 grams, it’s one of the larger hummingbird species in Costa Rica. Despite its size, it possesses the incredible ability to hover in mid-air, its short, straight bill perfectly adapted for extracting nectar from the heart of flowers.
A High-Flying Resident
Look for the Brown Violetear high up in the rainforest canopy, flitting amongst the tallest trees. They also frequent tall second-growth forests and even coffee plantations, venturing down to lower levels at forest edges and clearings. If you’re patient and keep your eyes peeled, you might catch a glimpse of one at our retreat’s hummingbird feeders, though they tend to be more focused on defending their territory than lingering for a long sip.
A Solitary Life
The Brown Violetear is a solitary bird, except during breeding season. The female takes the lead in building a tiny cup-shaped nest of plant down, often saddled on a twig 1-3 meters above the ground in a bush. She incubates the clutch of two white eggs alone, while the male defends his territory and the vital flower sources his family relies on. Interestingly, nesting females can become incredibly efficient insect hunters, catching up to 2,000 insects a day to provide protein for their growing chicks.
A Vital Pollinator
While the Brown Violetear might seem like a dazzling addition to our mountain retreat’s beauty, it plays a vital ecological role. As it sips nectar from flowers, pollen gets transferred on its tiny body, fertilizing plants and ensuring the continued health of the rainforest ecosystem.
Witnessing a Brown Violetear is a truly unforgettable experience. The next time you’re visiting our mountain retreat, keep your eyes peeled for this emerald wonder flitting through the trees. With a little patience and a keen eye, you might just be lucky enough to witness this dazzling hummingbird in all its glory.
For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica
