Here at the Costa Rican Retreat, nestled amidst the emerald embrace of the mountains, we’re surrounded by a vibrant symphony of life. From the booming calls of the toucan to the melodic whistles of the wren, our haven is a haven for birdwatchers. Today, we turn our gaze to a tiny titan, a jewel fluttering on wings of emerald and flame – the Rufous-tailed Hummingbird.
A Splendor of Feathers
This medium-sized hummingbird, aptly named for its fiery tail feathers, is a common sight in Costa Rica. Measuring a mere 3.5 to 4.3 inches, the Rufous-tailed Hummingbird is a dazzling burst of color. The males, sporting the most vibrant attire, boast a gleaming green crown and upperparts that shimmer like polished malachite. Their chests are adorned with the same emerald sheen, sometimes edged with thin white feathers, creating a captivating scalloped effect. But the star of the show, undoubtedly, is their tail. A cascade of rich, rusty red feathers tipped with bronze-green, it gives the hummingbird its distinctive name.
The females, while lacking the males’ flamboyant tail, are no less beautiful. They share the emerald upperparts, but their throats and chests are adorned with a softer green, sometimes tinged with gray. Their bellies are a pristine white, contrasting beautifully with the rufous undertail coverts.
A Territorial Treasure
The Rufous-tailed Hummingbird is a creature of habit, frequenting forest edges, clearings, gardens, and even venturing near human settlements. If you set up feeders with sugary nectar solutions at the Retreat, you might just be rewarded with a visit from these feisty flyers. But be warned, these little hummers are fiercely territorial. Their lightning-fast dives and acrobatic maneuvers are not just for show; they’ll chase away any competitors who dare to enter their feeding zone.
A Master of the Hover
The Rufous-tailed Hummingbird’s true marvel lies in its flight. Their wings beat at an astonishing 50 times per second, enabling them to hover mid-air with incredible precision. This hovering ability, coupled with their long, slender bills, makes them perfectly adapted for sipping nectar from brightly colored flowers like heliconia, banana, and coffee blossoms.
But their diet isn’t just sweet nectar. To fulfill their protein needs, these aerial acrobats also become tiny flycatchers, snatching small insects in mid-air. Watching a Rufous-tailed Hummingbird hover next to a flower, its tiny head darting in and out as it extracts nectar, is a mesmerizing spectacle.
A Feathered Friend
The Rufous-tailed Hummingbird is a vital part of the Costa Rican ecosystem. They play a crucial role in plant pollination, flitting from flower to flower, transferring pollen and ensuring the continued life of these flowering plants. Their presence also adds a touch of magic to our mountain retreat. Their vibrant colors, their dazzling aerial displays, and their feisty spirit make them a true delight to observe.
So, the next time you’re relaxing on your balcony at the Costa Rican Retreat, keep an eye out for a flash of emerald and fire. You might just be lucky enough to witness the wonder of the Rufous-tailed Hummingbird.
For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica
