Wednesday, March 2, 2011

Naturalist Notes: White-necked Jacobin Hummingbird


The White-necked Jacobin hummingbird is considered one of the more aggressive species in Trinidad. They are usually found at higher elevations in the forest, seldom seen in the lowlands. It is also observed in Tobago.

 This is a sexually dimorphic species. The males have immaculate white feathers on their nape, stomach and tail, while the rest of their body is bluish and greenish in color. The females look totally different, they are generally greenish in color with a speckled throat. She easily goes unnoticed. They are just about 4.5 inches in length.

 One of the amazing things I’ve observed about this species is that when they are sipping sugar solution from hummingbird feeders, the males hardly ever perch to feed! They mostly remain hovering in front of the feeder. I somehow believe this is their way of being readily agile to defend their territory from other species. So next time you happen to see a White-necked Jacobin look closer you might be surprised! 

© Denise Etienne 

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