Here at our Costa Rican mountain retreat, we take pride in the symphony of nature that surrounds us. From the booming calls of the toucan to the delicate hum of hummingbirds, every chirp and chirp adds to the vibrant tapestry of life. Today, we turn our focus to a dazzling little jewel – the White-bellied Emerald.
A Flash of Green and White
The White-bellied Emerald (Amazilia candida) is a relatively small hummingbird, typically measuring just 3.5 to 3.9 inches in length. Despite its diminutive size, it boasts a beauty that belies its name. Unlike some of its more strikingly colored cousins, the White-bellied Emerald is a study in subtle elegance.
Both males and females share similar plumage. Their upperparts shimmer with an iridescent green, catching the sunlight and transforming them into tiny emeralds. This green transitions to a cool white on their underparts, earning them the moniker “white-bellied.” Their tails are a muted greenish-brown, lacking the vibrant splashes of color found in other hummingbird species.
A Resident of the Rainforest Realm
While you might be lucky enough to spot a White-bellied Emerald flitting through the gardens of our mountain retreat, their preferred habitat is the dense rainforest canopy. They thrive in both tropical dry forests and subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, making them prevalent throughout much of Costa Rica, from the lowlands to the mountains.
A Master of the Nectar Dance
Like all hummingbirds, the White-bellied Emerald is a master of aerial acrobatics. Their wings beat at an incredible speed, allowing them to hover in mid-air as they probe flowers for nectar. Their long, slender bills are perfectly adapted for this task, reaching deep into blossoms to extract the sweet liquid that fuels their frenetic lifestyle.
A Vital Part of the Ecosystem
The White-bellied Emerald plays a crucial role in the rainforest ecosystem. As they flit from flower to flower, they act as pollinators, ensuring the reproduction of various plants. Their tiny bodies are bursts of energy, constantly on the move, adding a layer of dynamism to the rainforest.
Spotting a White-bellied Emerald
While they may not be the most flamboyant hummingbirds, the White-bellied Emerald’s understated elegance is a sight to behold. Here are some tips for spotting these little green gems:
- Keep an eye out near flowers: Heliconias, gingers, and other brightly colored flowers are particularly attractive to hummingbirds.
- Listen for their high-pitched hum: The rapid beating of their wings creates a characteristic humming sound.
- Look for them in the understory: White-bellied Emeralds tend to feed at lower levels compared to some other hummingbird species.
With a little patience and these handy tips, you might just be lucky enough to witness the dazzling dance of the White-bellied Emerald during your stay at our Costa Rican retreat. These tiny emeralds are a testament to the beauty and wonder that awaits you in the heart of our mountain paradise.
For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica
