Volcano Hummingbird
NameVolcano Hummingbird
Common NameVolcano Hummingbird
Scientific NameSelasphorus flammula
FamilyTrochilidae
Wingspan (cm)11
Length (cm)7.5
Weight (g)3
Plumage DetailsMales have iridescent green upperparts, a white breast band, rufous flanks, and a gorget that varies from magenta to fiery orange or violet-red depending on the subspecies. Females and immature males, like the one pictured, have green upperparts, white underparts with rufous flanks, a speckled throat and upper chest, and a rufous tail with a black subterminal band and white tips.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations consist of high-pitched, sharp 'tsip' or 'tseet' notes, often given while foraging or in flight. They also produce soft trilling sounds.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsmountain, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Talamanca Mountains of Costa Rica and western Panama, inhabiting high-altitude montane forests, paramo, and forest edges.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Green upperparts, White breast band, Rufous flanks, Rufous tail with black and white tips, Straight black bill, Males have iridescent gorget (color varies by subspecies)
Description
The Volcano Hummingbird is a tiny, high-altitude hummingbird found in Central America. It is known for its rapid flight and ability to hover while feeding on nectar from montane flowers. Males display a vibrant iridescent gorget, while females and immatures have a more subdued, speckled throat.
