High up in the misty mountains of Costa Rica, where the emerald rainforest canopy meets the sapphire sky, flits a tiny jewel – the Bronzy Hermit. This dazzling hummingbird, with its shimmering plumage and frenetic energy, is a captivating resident of our cloud forest retreat.

The Bronzy Hermit, aptly named for its bronzy-green upperparts, is a sight to behold. Sunlight dances off its feathers, creating an almost iridescent effect. This glimmering green extends to its tail, tipped with white for a touch of elegance. Look closely, and you might spot a delicate white “mustache” adorning its dusky face.

Despite its diminutive size, at only 3.5 to 3.9 inches long, the Bronzy Hermit is a powerhouse. Its wings beat at an astonishing rate, a blur as it hovers in mid-air, extracting nectar from the vibrant blooms that pepper our mountain retreat. Unlike other hummingbirds, the Bronzy Hermit’s bill is a marvel of adaptation. The male’s bill is decurved, with serrated edges, perfectly designed to reach deep within tubular flowers. The female’s bill, however, is more curved and lacks serrations, allowing her to access a wider variety of flowers.

While the Bronzy Hermit isn’t shy, it can be challenging to spot. It prefers the dense understory of the rainforest, flitting from flower to flower in a frenetic dance. But keep your ears peeled! Their high-pitched squeaks and chatters are often the first clue to their presence.

While you might find the Bronzy Hermit throughout Costa Rica, from eastern Honduras to western Panama and into the Chocó region of Colombia and northwestern Ecuador, here at our mountain retreat, you have a prime opportunity to witness this dazzling wonder. Our lush gardens, teeming with vibrant flowers, are a magnet for these tiny dynamos.

So, on your next visit to our Costa Rican retreat, take a moment to seek out the Bronzy Hermit. With a little patience and a keen eye, you might just be rewarded with a glimpse of this glittering gem, a testament to the magic and beauty that thrives in our cloud forest paradise.

Here are some additional Bronzy Hermit facts for the curious birder:

• Diet: Primarily nectar, but they may also consume small insects.
• Habitat: Dense understory of humid forests and thickets.
• Behavior: Solitary except during breeding season.
• Conservation Status: Least Concern (IUCN)

Tips for spotting the Bronzy Hermit:

• Visit our gardens during the early morning or late afternoon when flowers are most likely to be blooming.
• Look for fast-moving blurs with a whirring sound.
• Listen for their high-pitched squeaks and chatters.
• Bring binoculars for a closer look at their stunning plumage.

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