Naturalist Notes: Copper-rumped Hummingbird

One of the most widespread species of hummingbird in Trinidad is the Copper-rumped. I have frequently seen this species around my home in Malabar, as well as in the forest.

They are mainly green in color, with a coppery  rump and this merits their name. Males and females are identical and just shy of 4 inches in length.

Like most hummingbirds the Copper-rumped is somewhat aggressive. They are known to defend their territory from creatures much large than themselves. I remember once removing a hummingbird feeder to refill it, and suddenly right in front of my face was Copper rumped  hummingbird ready to wrestle with me! 

This particular species has a distinctive tune, which normally includes 3 or 4 syllables. If you were to put words to their melody it would sound like “Hey baby girl, hey baby girl”, so next time you observe one, listen closely you might be surprised!

If you would like to attract this species to your home, think about planting Lantana Camara, Calliandra and Ixoras, which are some of their favorite flowers.

This species is also found in Tobago.

© Denise Etienne

 

Naturalist Notes: Tufted Coquette Hummingbird

Did you know that the smallest bird in Trinidad is about the size of your baby finger? It is called the Tufted Coquette Hummingbird and it measures only two and three-quarter inches in length. Often times it can be confuse with a large bee! This species is not found in Tobago.

The male Tufted Coquette merits their name, for he is incredibly striking. He has quite a distinguished crest and tufts projecting out from the sides of his neck, which are chestnut in color. To me, he is reminiscent of a Carnival King with his ornamental head piece! The female lacks all the accessories, but nonetheless she is a sight to behold.

Vervine, Lantana Camara and Pigeon Peas are some of their favorite flowering plants. Their minuscule beaks are perfectly well adapted to reach inside the tiny flowers. So if you are interested in having these species visit your yard or garden, try cultivating some of these plants you never know who may stop by!

I am yet to discover one of their nests, which is supposed to be tiny and cup-shaped, constructed of spider webs, lichens, mosses, and fibers from plants. I would imagine that the eggs may look like peas in a pod!

People are always awestruck when they observe a Hummingbird. Perhaps because they are so minute, swift, or precise? Or is it that fact they can hover right in front of you? Maybe it’s their immaculate feathers? What ever the reason, I know it is one bird that can definitely turn quite a few heads!

The role of the Tufted Coquette and other Hummingbirds in nature are primarily pollinating agents. They also help to control the insect population by ingesting them.

© Denise Etienne

Naturalist Notes: Hummingbirds

Hummingbirds are like dashing dynamic jewels. Fierce, petite, and full of character! They are known to be extremely territorial and sometimes very aggressive. Some species are widespread throughout the island, whilst others have specific ranges. Their diet consists of nectar or sugar solution, insects and small invertebrates. Hummingbirds are the masters of hovering, with great control and accuracy. Did you know that they are the only birds able to fly backwards?  They have long and slender beaks - some straight and others curved. The name hummingbird originates from the distinctive “hum” made by their rapid wing beats.  Depending on the species it can be anywhere from 15-80 times per second, now that is awfully fast!

Interestingly, hummingbirds are found only in the New World: North, South, and Central America; and the Caribbean islands. There are just over 300 species recorded, the majority exists mainly in Central and South America and the Caribbean.

Many years ago Trinidad was called “Iere” which means land of the hummingbird. There are 17 species of hummingbirds, and over the next few weeks I’ll be writing more about them, stayed tuned!

Beautiful jewels

Hovering and displaying

Sipping on nectar

© Denise Etienne

Naturalist Notes: Snakes of Trinidad and Tobago II

Corals are the other group of venomous snakes found in Trinidad. They range from a few inches up to two feet in length and are the width of one of your fingers. Their colors are mainly red, black, white, (somewhat patriotic) or yellow.  It is always good to warn small children about these creatures, being so colorful they may be tempted to pick them up and play. These creatures are mostly found under logs and rocks. Their venom contain Neurotoxins which generally affects the nervous system, causing paralysis and death by suffocation.

© Denise Etienne