Long-billed Hermit
NameLong-billed Hermit
Common NameLong-billed Hermit
Scientific NamePhaethornis longirostris
FamilyTrochilidae
Wingspan (cm)11
Length (cm)15
Weight (g)5
Plumage DetailsThe plumage features a dark brownish-black crown, a prominent pale buffy supercilium, and a dark malar stripe. Upperparts are dull bronzy-green, while underparts are buffy, often darker on the flanks. The long, graduated tail has white tips on the outer feathers.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include high-pitched, thin 'seep' or 'tseet' calls, often repeated. Males sing from leks, producing a series of high-pitched, somewhat squeaky notes.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeIts range extends from southern Mexico through Central America (Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama) and into northwestern South America (Colombia, Ecuador).
Identifying FeaturesVery long, strongly decurved bill, Distinctive facial pattern (dark crown, pale supercilium, dark malar stripe), Buffy underparts, Long, graduated tail with white tips
Description
This medium-sized hummingbird is characterized by its exceptionally long, strongly decurved bill and distinctive facial markings. It primarily feeds on nectar from long-tubed flowers, hovering gracefully in the understory of tropical forests.
