Here at our Costa Rican retreat, nestled amidst the emerald embrace of the mountains, we share our haven not only with the towering trees and cascading waterfalls, but also with a dazzling cast of feathered residents. Today, we turn our binoculars to a tiny jewel – the Coppery-headed Emerald.

A Flash of Copper in the Canopy

This miniature marvel lives up to its name. The male Coppery-headed Emerald is a sight to behold, with a crown and rump that shimmer with an iridescent coppery sheen, like a flake of metal catching the sunlight. This fiery detail is a stark contrast to its otherwise emerald green body, making it a true hummingbird gem.

The Coppery-headed Emerald is a resident of the highlands, gracing the mountain slopes of northern and central Costa Rica. While most commonly found on the Caribbean slope, in the far north, you might even catch a glimpse of one on the Pacific side.

A Life Amongst the Leaves

Their preferred habitat is the heart of the rainforest, specifically the edges and interiors of moist to humid montane forests. Here, they flit amongst the leaves, a constant flurry of emerald and copper. Interestingly, there seems to be a bit of vertical segregation between the sexes. Males tend to favor the lofty heights of the forest canopy, while females prefer the understory. However, both can be spotted at any level, especially at forest edges and in clearings.

A Dance for Nectar

Like all hummingbirds, the Coppery-headed Emerald is a master of aerial acrobatics. Their wings beat at an astonishing rate, allowing them to hover in mid-air as they probe the depths of flowers for nectar, their main source of food. Their long, decurved bill is perfectly adapted for reaching into the heart of blossoms, extracting the sweet liquid treasure.

The Coppery-headed Emerald, thankfully, is classified as a species of Least Concern. However, like many rainforest inhabitants, they are susceptible to habitat loss. Protecting these verdant ecosystems is crucial for ensuring the continued flight of this dazzling jewel.

Spotting Your Own Emerald Gem

If you’re fortunate enough to visit our mountain retreat, keep your eyes peeled for the Coppery-headed Emerald darting amongst the leaves. Their tiny size can make them challenging to spot, but their vibrant colors often give them away. Early mornings are a good time to look, as they are most active during this period.

For the avid birder, look for them in the edges and clearings of the forest, where they are more likely to venture out from the denser foliage. With a little patience and a keen eye, you might just be rewarded with a glimpse of this dazzling Costa Rican hummingbird.

So, the next time you’re here at our retreat, take a moment to appreciate the symphony of life that surrounds you. With a little luck, you might just encounter the Coppery-headed Emerald, a tiny spark of brilliance flitting amongst the emerald embrace of the Costa Rican mountains.

For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica