The emerald embrace of the Costa Rican rainforest holds a symphony of life. Among its most captivating residents are the hummingbirds, tiny bursts of color flitting between vibrant blooms. Today, we turn our gaze to a dazzling resident of the mountain slopes, the Band-tailed Barbthroat.
A Jewel in the Understory
The Band-tailed Barbthroat (Threnetes ruckeri) is a medium-sized hummingbird, a shimmering wonder measuring just 10-11 centimeters. While not as common as some of its flashy cousins, spotting one is a guaranteed thrill.
A Glimpse into the Plumage
The male Band-tailed Barbthroat is a sight to behold. His upperparts shimmer with a bronze-green sheen, contrasting sharply with a dark ear patch and chin. A dusky stripe streaks down his cheek, adding a touch of intrigue. But the true showstopper is the tail. Black feathers with stark white tips create a striking barred pattern, a namesake feature that flashes when the bird takes flight.
A Feast for the Senses
The Band-tailed Barbthroat prefers the shady embrace of the understory, flitting between Heliconia flowers and other tubular blooms. Its long, slightly arched bill (yellowish below) is perfectly adapted for probing deep into these blossoms, extracting the sweet nectar that fuels its frenetic energy.
But the Band-tailed Barbthroat isn’t just a nectar-lover. This little hunter also supplements its diet with small arthropods, especially spiders. It employs a fascinating technique called “trap-lining,” visiting a circuit of flowering plants it knows offer both nectar and potential prey.
A Whirl of Activity
Unlike some hummingbirds that hover gracefully, the Band-tailed Barbthroat tends to visit flowers for short bursts. You might catch a glimpse of its vibrant plumage as it darts between blooms, its wings buzzing with a characteristic sharp squeak.
A Chance Encounter at the Retreat
While the Band-tailed Barbthroat isn’t as widely distributed as some hummingbirds, guests venturing into the higher elevations of our mountain retreat might be lucky enough to spot this dazzling jewel. Keep your eyes peeled near Heliconia patches in the understory, and listen for the telltale buzz of its wings.
If you’re fortunate enough to encounter this little wonder, take a moment to appreciate its beauty. The Band-tailed Barbthroat is a living testament to the vibrant tapestry of life woven within the Costa Rican mountains.
For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica
