The blue-headed hummingbird is a species of hummingbird in the "emeralds", tribe Trochilini of subfamily Trochilinae. It is found only on the islands of Dominica and Martinique in the Lesser Antilles.
Region
Lesser Antilles
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid montane rainforest, cloud forest, and elfin woodland, especially in mature forest with abundant flowering understory. It uses forest edges, clearings, and along streams where nectar sources concentrate. On Dominica it is most frequent on the higher slopes and ridges; on Martinique it has been recorded mainly around the highest massifs. After storms it may descend slightly to secondary growth following flowering pulses.
Altitude Range
300–1400 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The blue-headed hummingbird is restricted to the high, moist forests of Dominica and Martinique in the Lesser Antilles. Males show a striking, iridescent cobalt-blue head that flashes in good light. It was hit hard by major hurricanes, and the Martinique population may be extremely small or possibly extirpated, making conservation of Dominica’s montane forests critical.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile hovering and darting sallies
Social Behavior
Typically forages alone and males defend rich flower patches against intruders. Courtship includes aerial chases and display flights; males do not assist with nesting. The nest is a small cup of plant fibers and spider silk placed on a sheltered branch.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are thin, high-pitched tsit and tsee notes, with rapid twittering during chases. Wingbeats produce an audible hum at close range, especially during hovering displays.
