Table of Contents
Introduction
With over 50 species, Costa Rica is a paradise for hummingbirds. These jewel birds, with their shimmering colors and hovering flight, can be found in all ecosystems, from tropical rainforests to arid zones. Many endemic species are found nowhere else in the world.
Physical description
Hummingbirds are tiny birds measuring from 5 to 20 cm and weighing from 2 to 20 g. Their long, slender beaks are ideal for collecting nectar. Their wings beat very rapidly, up to 80 beats per second, enabling them to fly in place. Males have brightly colored throats and crowns, used to attract females.
Habitats and distribution
Hummingbirds can be found in every natural region of Costa Rica: rainforests, cloud forests, tropical dry forests, mangroves or arid zones. Some are ubiquitous generalists, while others are restricted to certain ecosystems.
Behavior
Hummingbirds are active all year round, from the first light of day. They spend most of their time foraging for nectar from flowers. Very territorial, they aggressively pursue other birds that approach their feeding area.
Feeding
In addition to nectar, hummingbirds consume insects and small arthropods for their protein needs. Their long, tubular, extensible tongue enables them to collect nectar from the bottom of corollas. Some also feed on fruit and even tree sap.
Reproduction
The breeding season corresponds to the rainy season. The male seduces the female with colorful courtship displays before mating. The female then builds a small cup-shaped nest made of plant fibers glued together with spider silk. She lays two white eggs, which she incubates alone for 15 days.
Threats and conservation
Some species are threatened by habitat loss. But the majority of populations are stable, and many species benefit from gardens and hotels offering abundant food sources.
Main species to watch
White-bellied hummingbird: the most widespread, recognizable by its white belly.
Broad-tailed hummingbird: black-striped white tail with metallic blue cap.
Magnificent hummingbird: emerald and dark blue plumage with bright purple tail. Endemic.
Superb hummingbird: male with spectacular blue head and turquoise tail.
Pygmy Hermit: tiny hummingbird with shiny green back and grayish belly.
Get out your binoculars and watch out for these winged jewels!
Photo tips
If you want to photograph them, it’s best to arrive early in the morning. It’s at dawn that these birds begin their quest for nectar.
What’s more, you’ll need to be patient, because with their vivacity, these little flying jewels don’t make it easy for you. If you have a tripod with you, this is ideal, as you can focus on a particular flower and wait until the hummingbird chooses to feed on that flower.
Increase the iso enough to keep the exposure time as short as possible, set it to burst mode and be ready to press the shutter release at the first sign. Hummingbirds never stay on the same flower for long.
It’s up to you!