The stripe-throated hermit hummingbird is a small hummingbird found in tropical Central and South America. With its vibrant green plumage, long downcurved bill, and bold stripe across its throat, this species is quite distinctive among hummingbirds. Here is an overview of the stripe-throated hermit hummingbird, including its identification, distribution, diet and foraging, behavior, reproduction, and conservation status.
Identification
The stripe-throated hermit is one of the more easily identifiable hermit hummingbird species. Adults measure 8-10 cm in length and weigh around 5-8 grams. As their name suggests, these hummingbirds can be readily identified by the bold black and white stripe running across the throat. The back and crown are a vibrant metallic green, while the underparts are grayish white. The tail is mostly black, with white outer tail feathers. The long bill is decurved and black. Females are similar to males, but lack the bold throat stripe and have greener underparts. Juveniles resemble adult females. The stripe-throated hermit’s closest relatives are other hermits in the Phaethornithinae subfamily, including the minute hermit and hook-billed hermit.
Distribution
The stripe-throated hermit hummingbird is found from southern Mexico through Central America into Columbia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia and central Brazil. Its habitat consists of tropical lowland rainforests, forest borders, second growth scrub, and gardens. This species occurs up to elevations of 1200 m. Though not migratory, seasonal movements in response to food sources have been noted.
Diet and Foraging
Like all hummingbirds, nectar is the main food source for stripe-throated hermits. Their long, curved bills allow them to access nectar from long tropical flowers. Fruit and small insects are also sometimes eaten to supplement their diet. Foraging mainly occurs in the forest mid-canopy, visiting a variety of flowering plants and epiphytes. Stripe-throated hermits use their long bills to steal nectar from flowers without pollinating them, acting as nectar robbers. They may also trap insects against vegetation using their bills. This species is somewhat aggressive and will chase away other hummingbirds from their preferred nectar sources.
Behavior
The stripe-throated hermit hummingbird is usually encountered alone or in pairs, only assembling in larger groups at particularly rich food sources. Males are highly territorial and use plumage displays and vocalizations to advertise and defend their feeding territories. Aerial displays include flying in U-shaped patterns and diving with squeaky vocalizations. Song is used both for courtship and territoriality, and includes buzzy trills and whistles. Stripe-throated hermits perch in the mid-canopy, often sitting motionless for long periods. Though fairly slow and methodical in flight while foraging, they can fly rapidly over long distances if needed.
Reproduction
The breeding season of stripe-throated hermits depends on location, generally occurring in the rainy season which provides the most flowers and food. Courtship consists of aerial displays by the male, along with song and presentation of nest materials. The female constructs the small cup nest on a low horizontal branch or tree fork only 1-2 m above ground. She incubates the 2 tiny white eggs alone for 15-19 days until they hatch. The chicks are fed regurgitated nectar and insects by the female. They fledge in approximately 20-26 days. Not much else is known about the reproductive habits of this relatively unstudied hermit species.
Conservation
Currently, the stripe-throated hermit is evaluated as a species of Least Concern by the IUCN. It has a wide distribution and presumed large global population. Population numbers appear to be stable and no major threats have been identified. However, some localized declines have been noted, mainly from habitat loss. Deforestation for agriculture and logging has reduced its rainforest habitat in parts of its range. Climate change effects on tropical ecosystems are not fully understood but are a potential future threat. Eco-tourism relies on vibrant hummingbird populations, so protecting key habitats can benefit both birds and people. With continued protection, the vibrant stripe-throated hermit should continue brightening its tropical haunts with its jewel-like beauty.
In summary, the stripe-throated hermit hummingbird is a fascinating tropical species easily identified by its bold throat stripe. Feeding on nectar and insects using its specialized bill, this territorial hermit inhabits forests across Central and South America. Maintaining habitat protection will allow this unique hummingbird’s behavioral displays and irridescent plumage to be appreciated for generations to come. With its distinctive appearance and adaptations, the stripe-throated hermit occupies an important ecological role as a pollinator and consumer of invertebrates and nectar. There is still much to learn about the life history and conservation needs of this hermit species. But with more study and habitat conservation, the stripe-throated hermit’s future certainly looks bright.