As the sun paints the Costa Rican mountains with a golden glow, a flurry of emerald streaks through the air. If you look closely, you might catch a glimpse of the Lesser Violetear, a dazzling hummingbird that frequents our mountain retreat. Though tiny, this vibrant creature boasts an iridescent beauty that will leave you breathless.

The Lesser Violetear, also known as the Mountain Violetear, is a medium-sized hummingbird by Costa Rican standards. Measuring just 3.8 to 4.7 inches in length, it’s a whirlwind of color. Its crown and back shimmer with a metallic green, while its underparts showcase a more glittering green that seems to catch the light. But the true star of the show is the bird’s namesake – the violet ear-patch. This dazzling patch, located on the sides of its neck, shimmers with a blue or purple hue, adding a touch of magic to its appearance.

While the Lesser Violetear might be a sight to behold, it can be quite tricky to spot. Unlike some of its flashier hummingbird cousins, the Lesser Violetear is a solitary bird. You’ll find it flitting through the forest canopy, its wings beating at an incredible pace as it hovers in mid-air to sip nectar from flowering plants.

Here at our mountain retreat, nestled amidst the lush rainforests, you have a great chance of encountering this little wonder. The Lesser Violetear is quite common in these parts, and with a bit of patience and a keen eye, you might spot it flitting between flowers or visiting our hummingbird feeders.

Tips for spotting the Lesser Violetear:

• Early mornings are prime time: The Lesser Violetear is most active in the early hours of the morning, so head out for a nature walk or sit by the feeders with your binoculars just as the sun rises.
• Listen for its chirp: This tiny bird has a constant chipping song that can help you locate it within the foliage.
• Keep an eye out for flowering plants: Heliconias, gingers, and bromeliads are all favorites of the Lesser Violetear, so focus your gaze on these colorful blooms.

With a little luck and these helpful pointers, you might just be rewarded with a glimpse of the Lesser Violetear. This sparkling jewel of the Costa Rican mountains is a true delight to observe, and its frenetic energy and dazzling colors are a reminder of the wonders that nature holds. So, keep your eyes peeled during your stay at our mountain retreat, and you might just be lucky enough to encounter this captivating hummingbird.

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