H4_W6A_004

Date: May-22

Location: Costa Rica

Did you know?

The Talamancan Hummingbird, scientifically known as Eugenes spectabilis, is indeed a valid hummingbird species. It is an endemic bird found in the Talamancan Mountains of Costa Rica and western Panama. The Talamancan Hummingbird is a medium-sized hummingbird with a unique and beautiful appearance. The male showcases a brilliant combination of colors, with a shining green head, blue-green back, and a long, deeply forked tail. It also exhibits a stunning violet-blue throat patch and a white chest band. The female has a more subdued coloring with a grayish-green head and a pale throat. Due to their restricted range and habitat loss, the Talamancan Hummingbird faces conservation challenges. Protecting their cloud forest habitats and promoting sustainable land management practices are crucial for their survival. Preserving the Talamancan Hummingbird and its unique habitat not only ensures the survival of this beautiful species but also contributes to the conservation of the rich biodiversity found in the Talamancan Mountains.

About the picture

These hummingbirds inhabit montane and cloud forests, where they feed on nectar from a variety of flowering plants. They are known for their agility and hovering flight as they extract nectar with their long, curved bills. In addition to nectar, they also consume small insects and spiders.

Fun Fact

The average number of eggs laid by female hummingbirds is only two. These eggs have been found in nests smaller than a half dollar and compare in size to a jellybean or a coffee bean.