The Amazilia hummingbird is a small, colorful bird found in Central and South America. With over 30 recognized species, Amazilias make up the single largest genus of hummingbirds in the world. These energetic, acrobatic birds captivate with their vibrant plumage and remarkable flying abilities.
Physical Description
Amazilias range in size from 2.75 to 4 inches in length and weigh between 2 to 6 grams. Their slender, pointed bills allow them to feed on nectar from flowers. Their wings beat at an astounding 50 to 80 flaps per second, enabling them to hover in place or fly forwards, backwards, and upside down.
The plumage of Amazilias exhibits incredible variation between species and sexes. Males tend to have brightly colored throats and crowns used to attract females. Depending on the species, the males may display fiery throats in shades of orange, blue, green, or purple. The emerald-chinned hummingbird has a signature bright green chin and throat, while the Andean emerald boasts an iridescent green crown and gorget. Females and immature birds are relatively drab compared to adult males, with greenish-gray plumage on their backs and whitish undersides. Several species, like the sapphire-spangled emerald, have distinct white markings along their tails.
Habitat and Range
Amazilias nimbly dart through many types of habitat across tropical Central and South America. They thrive in ecosystems ranging from sea level up to heights over 12,500 feet in the Andes Mountains. Most species inhabit forest and woodland areas, including cloud forests, rainforests, and dry deciduous forests. Some Amazilias frequent more open environments like plantations, parks, and gardens, especially those with an abundance of nectar-rich flowering plants.
The range extends from Mexico down through Panama, then down the Andes mountain range to Bolivia, Paraguay, and northern Argentina. Particular hotspots for Amazilia diversity include Ecuador, Colombia, and Costa Rica. For example, an astounding 22 species can be found in Ecuador alone. Several Caribbean islands are also home to endemic species, like the Antillean crested hummingbird on Dominica and Martinique.
Behavior and Diet
Like all hummingbirds, Amazilias are highly energetic. Their wings beat up to 80 times per second, enabling specialized flying abilities. They can hover precisely in place, fly sideways and backwards, and swiftly change direction in midair. This agile flight allows them to efficiently visit flower after flower in search of nectar.
Amazilias probe flowers with their slender bills to lap up nectar. They prefer tubular blossoms in colors like red, orange, and pink which they can access with their elongated tongues. Some favorites include honeysuckle, fuchsia, and lobelia. To fuel their extreme metabolism, Amazilias must consume approximately half their body weight in nectar each day!
These resourceful birds also extract insects and spiders from flowers and bark to obtain protein and nutrients. Their forked tongues help snatch up the small arthropods. Additionally, some species will visit sap wells excavated by woodpeckers to drink nutrient-rich tree sap.
Reproduction
The breeding season varies across Amazilia species based on their range, but typically corresponds with seasonal flowering. Courtship displays involve aerial pursuits and dives by the amorous males. Once paired, the female builds a delicate cup nest on a low branch or tree fork using soft plant down and spider webs. She incubates the 2 tiny white eggs alone for about 16 to 19 days.
The hatchlings are born featherless, with closed eyes, but develop swiftly. Both parents work together to collect food to nourish the chicks. In just 18 to 23 days after hatching, the young birds are ready to venture out of the nest. However, the parents continue to care for them for some time as they hone their flying skills and foraging abilities.
Threats and Conservation
Habitat loss represents the largest threat facing Amazilia hummingbirds. Deforestation reduces suitable breeding areas and flowers for feeding. Some species, like the blue-chested hummingbird, are endangered with declining populations due to deforestation. Urbanization and conversion of land for agriculture and plantations have also decreased available habitat.
Climate change may impact Amazilias by causing shifts in flowering schedules and ranges. Droughts can further dry out vegetation. Providing flowering gardens, keeping cats indoors, and preserving wild habitat can help protect these captivating birds. Ecotourism brings attention and funding to important reserves across Central and South America. Several Amazilia species have adapted well to human disturbances, giving hope that they may continue to brighten the Americas with their dazzling hues.
Key Facts
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There are over 30 recognized species in the Amazilia genus, making it the largest hummingbird genus.
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Amazilias exhibit incredible diversity in plumage colors and patterns between species and sexes. Adult males are often vividly colored.
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They inhabit a wide range of Neotropical ecosystems from Mexico to Argentina and many Caribbean islands.
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Their rapid wing beats, up to 80 per second, allow specialized flight including hovering and flying backwards.
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Their tongues are forked to help lap nectar and catch insects. Amazilias eat half their body weight in nectar daily!
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Habitat loss is the biggest threat, but they adapt well to gardens. Ecotourism helps protect species in key reserves.
In Summary
With their glittering plumage and remarkable flying talents, Amazilia hummingbirds captivate all who observe them. Though small, they play vital pollination roles across Central and South American habitats. Deforestation has impacted some species, but their flexibility gives hope for the future. Continued efforts to preserve wild areas along with backyard gardens can ensure these energetic jewels continue to dazzle future generations.