Scintillant Hummingbird

Identification

The scintillant hummingbird is among the tiniest birds on Earth, measuring just 6.5–8 cm (2.6–3.1 in) in length and weighing a mere 2–2.3 grams—marginally larger than the bee hummingbird itself. Males are particularly striking, with bronze-green upperparts, a brilliant red throat separated from cinnamon underparts by a distinctive white neck band, and a rufous and black-striped tail. Females are subtly different: their throats are buff with small green spots, and their flanks display richer rufous coloration. Both sexes possess a short, straight black bill. Young birds resemble females but show rufous fringes on their upperpart plumage.

Range & Habitat

The scintillant hummingbird is endemic to Costa Rica and Panama, where it occupies a specific ecological niche at middle elevations. This tiny species inhabits brushy forest edges, coffee plantations, and occasionally gardens, typically found between 900 and 2,000 meters in elevation, though it may venture up to 2,500 meters during non-breeding periods. At higher elevations, its range is replaced by the closely related volcano hummingbird.

Behaviour & Diet

Like all hummingbirds, the scintillant feeds primarily on nectar from small flowers, including Salvia and insect-pollinated species, supplementing this diet with tiny insects for essential protein. During breeding season, males adopt a highly territorial lifestyle, perching conspicuously in open areas with abundant Salvia flowers and defending their feeding territories with aggressive diving displays. Their presence is announced by a liquid tsip call.

Breeding falls entirely to the female, who constructs a delicate cup nest from plant floss, positioned 1–4 meters high in scrub vegetation. She lays two white eggs, which require 15–19 days of incubation, followed by another 20–26 days until fledging—a remarkable investment from such a diminutive parent.

Best Time & Places to See It

Seek scintillant hummingbirds in the highland regions of Costa Rica and Panama, particularly in areas with coffee plantations and brushy forest edges at elevations between 900 and 2,000 meters. The breeding season is the most productive time for observation, when males actively defend territories and perch conspicuously in open areas with flowering Salvia.

Photography Tips

Photographing such a minute subject demands patience and appropriate equipment. Focus on areas where males are defending territories during breeding season, as they are most likely to remain perched and visible. Early morning light is ideal for capturing the iridescent brilliance of the male's red throat. A telephoto lens is essential given the bird's small size, and fast shutter speeds are necessary to freeze the rapid movement of these hyperactive creatures.