The black jacobin is a species of hummingbird in the family Trochilidae. It is found in Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay.
Region
Atlantic Forest of eastern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs from eastern and southeastern Brazil into eastern Paraguay and northeastern Argentina, with occasional records in Uruguay. It favors forest edges, secondary growth, and clearings within the Atlantic Forest, and readily uses coastal restinga, urban parks, and gardens. The species often visits hummingbird feeders and flowering trees in human-modified landscapes. It can be common in mosaic habitats where native forest patches meet open areas.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The black jacobin is a relatively large hummingbird of the Atlantic Forest and nearby habitats, known for its bold, aggressive defense of nectar sources. It frequently visits garden feeders as well as natural flowers and acts as an important pollinator. Its rapid wingbeats produce a noticeable hum, and it often performs swift, direct flights between feeding sites.
Immature
Temperament
territorial and assertive around nectar sources
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile hovering; strong, direct dashes between flowers
Social Behavior
Generally solitary when feeding and strongly defends rich nectar sources from other hummingbirds. Courtship is not elaborate; the species relies on rapid chases and displays. The female builds a small cup nest from plant fibers and spider silk on a horizontal branch, usually laying two eggs and caring for the young alone.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Vocalizations are high, thin chips and sharp squeaks delivered in quick series. It also produces rapid twittering notes during chases, with the wing hum adding a mechanical undertone.
Plumage
Mostly sooty-black with a glossy sheen, contrasting with bright white patches on the lower back/rump and white in the outer tail feathers. Underparts are dark; wings are dusky with a slight metallic gloss. The tail appears white-sided in flight due to broad white outer rectrices.
Diet
Primarily consumes nectar from a wide variety of flowering trees, shrubs, and epiphytes, including bromeliads and other tubular blooms. It supplements nectar with small arthropods, which provide essential protein. Insects are taken by hawking from perches or gleaned from foliage, especially when feeding nestlings.
Preferred Environment
Feeds along forest edges, in clearings, and in gardens where nectar-rich flowers are abundant. Often forages at mid-level to canopy height but will descend to visit feeders and flowering shrubs.
