Needle-billed Hermit
NameNeedle-billed Hermit
Common NameNeedle-billed Hermit
Scientific NamePhaethornis philippii
FamilyTrochilidae
Wingspan (cm)11.5
Length (cm)12.5
Weight (g)4.5
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are bronzy-green, often with a scaly appearance on the crown and back. Underparts are rufous-orange, particularly on the throat and belly. It features a dark facial mask bordered by a pale supercilium and a pale malar stripe. The long, straight bill is dark with a pale base to the lower mandible, and the tail is graduated with white tips on the outer feathers.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations typically consist of high-pitched, thin, squeaky notes or a series of 'tsip' or 'seep' calls, often delivered from a favored song perch.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the western Amazon basin, primarily in eastern Peru, western Brazil, and northern Bolivia.
Identifying FeaturesVery long, straight, needle-like bill, Rufous-orange underparts, Dark facial mask with pale supercilium and malar stripe, Bronzy-green upperparts, Graduated tail with white tips
Description
The Needle-billed Hermit is a medium-sized hummingbird characterized by its exceptionally long, straight bill. It inhabits the understory of humid lowland forests, feeding primarily on nectar while also consuming small insects.
