The buff-bellied hermit is a species of bird in the family Trochilidae, the hummingbirds. It is found in Bolivia and Brazil.
Region
Southwestern Amazonia
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland forests of northern Bolivia and adjacent western Brazil, especially along river corridors and in seasonally flooded and gallery forests. It frequents forest edges, secondary growth, vine tangles, and bamboo thickets, where tubular flowers are abundant. The species is most often seen in the shaded understory and along stream margins. It tolerates some habitat disturbance but declines with extensive forest loss.
Altitude Range
0–800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The buff-bellied hermit is a medium-sized hummingbird adapted for trapline foraging, visiting a repeated circuit of nectar-rich flowers. Its long, decurved bill matches tubular blooms like Heliconia and Costus, and it supplements nectar with tiny insects for protein. Like many hermits, it often builds a small, cup-shaped nest suspended from the underside of a large leaf near water. Its understated plumage helps it blend into the shaded forest understory.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile hovering
Social Behavior
Primarily solitary outside of breeding, defending rich nectar sources within small feeding areas. Males may sing from low perches and can participate in loose, dispersed leks. The nest is a small cup of plant fibers and spider silk, often suspended beneath a large leaf or over a stream. Females handle incubation and chick rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a thin, high-pitched series of repeated squeaks or tseet notes delivered persistently from a low perch. Calls include sharp chips and buzzy notes during territorial chases.
