COSTA RICAN HUMMINGBIRD
Archilochus colubris
DESCRIPTION
The Costa Rican Hummingbird, also known as the Ruby-throated Hummingbird, is a small, vibrant bird known for its iridescent plumage and rapid wing beats. It is a migratory species that travels between North America and Central America.
FUN FACTS
- Hummingbirds can beat their wings up to 80 times per second | They are the only birds that can fly backwards | Their heart can beat over 1,200 times per minute
QUICK INFO
Lifespan3-5 years in the wild, up to 10 years in captivity
Average Weight3-4 g
Average Length7.5-9 cm
Diet TypeOmnivore
Social Structuresolitary, often seen alone or in pairs during breeding season
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring to early summer
- Habitat
- Costa Rican Hummingbirds are typically found in a variety of habitats, including gardens, forests, and open areas with abundant flowering plants. They prefer areas with high floral diversity.
- Biomes
- Tropical Rainforest, Temperate Forest
- Native Range
- North America to Central America, particularly in the eastern United States and parts of Mexico.
- Continent
- North America, Central America
- Countries
- United States, Mexico, Costa Rica
- Diet
- This species primarily feeds on nectar from flowers, but it also consumes small insects and spiders for protein. Its long bill allows it to access nectar deep within flowers.
- Diet Type
- Omnivore
- Favorite Food
- nectar, small insects
- Social Structure
- solitary, often seen alone or in pairs during breeding season
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1-2
- Territorial
- 1
3-4 g
Weight
7.5-9 cm
Length
- Coloration
- iridescent green back, ruby-red throat
- Sexual Dimorphism
- males have brighter throat coloration than females
- Lifespan
- 3-5 years in the wild, up to 10 years in captivity
- Offspring per Birth
- 2
- Sexual Maturity
- 1 year
- Breeding Season
- Spring to early summer
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- Population is generally stable, but local declines may occur due to habitat loss.
- Wild Population Estimate
- unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction and climate change, which can affect food availability. Urbanization also poses a risk to their natural habitats.
- Predators
- praying mantises, larger birds, and some reptiles
- Defense Mechanisms
- aggressive territorial behavior, rapid flight maneuvers
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon