High in the mountains of Costa Rica, where the emerald embrace of the rainforest meets the cool kiss of the cloud forests, flies a dazzling jewel – the crowned emerald. This tiny hummingbird, which breeds in Costa Rica and western Panama, is not just a splash of color, it’s a whirlwind of energy, a vital element of the mountain ecosystem, and a guaranteed source of delight for our lodge guests.
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A Spark of Green
The crowned emerald, named for its brilliant plumage, is a member of the Trochilidae family, also known as ’emeralds’ for their enchanting green hues. Males boast a dazzling display of metallic green upperparts, shimmering with a blue sheen under certain lights. Their forked tail is a magnificent blue-black, with central feathers showing a slight bluish-green sheen. But the real showstopper is their underside – a brighter, richer metallic green that can sometimes take on a light blue hue. Adorable white thigh tufts complete the picture, adding a touch of whimsical charm.
Females, though less showy, are no less beautiful. Their upperparts are a shimmering metallic green to bronze-green, with the same bluish-green upper tail coverts. Their tail echoes that of the males, and their central feathers have a dull metallic green sheen. But the most distinctive feature is the light gray tip of their outer tail feathers, a subtle detail that birdwatchers find endlessly fascinating.
A Winged Jewel
The crowned emerald is a small wonder, measuring just 7.8 to 8.5 centimeters (3.1 to 3.3 inches) in length and weighing 3 to 4.1 grams (0.11 to 0.14 ounces). But what they lack in size, they make up for in boundless energy. Their wings beat at an incredible speed, allowing them to hover in the air while sipping nectar from flowers. Their flight is a mesmerizing display of agility, as they dart, zip, and hover from flower to flower, a constant blur of emerald green against the lush backdrop of the rainforest.
A Vital Role
These little jewels are more than just pretty faces. They play a crucial role in the rainforest ecosystem. By flying from flower to flower, feeding on nectar, they act as pollinators, ensuring the continued health and reproduction of a wide range of plants. Their tiny bodies carry pollen from flower to flower, promoting biodiversity and maintaining the delicate balance of the rainforest.
A Sight to Behold
For our lodge guests, the crowned emerald is a constant source of delight. Early risers often catch sight of these dazzling hummingbirds hovering near the lodge feeders, their wings a blur as they sip the sweet nectar. Savvy birdwatchers may spot them flitting through the gardens, their emerald bodies catching the sunlight like tiny gems. And for the luckiest, a crowned emerald might even perch on a nearby branch for a moment, allowing an unforgettable close-up of this magnificent creature.
Come See for Yourself
The crowned emerald is just one of the many incredible birds that inhabit Costa Rica. In our mountain retreat, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the rainforest, you have the chance to observe these feathered wonders with your own eyes. So pack your binoculars, lace up your hiking boots, and prepare to be enchanted by the fascinating crowned emerald, a tiny jewel that embodies the magic of Costa Rica.
Pour plus d’informations, veuillez consulter notre guide complet sur les oiseaux du Costa Rica.
