The coppery emerald is a species of hummingbird in the "emeralds", tribe Trochilini of subfamily Trochilinae. It is found in Colombia and Venezuela.
Region
Northern South America (Colombia and Venezuela)
Typical Environment
Found from lowlands to foothills in northern Colombia and adjacent Venezuela, frequenting edges of dry to semi-humid forests, scrub, gallery woods, and cultivated areas. It readily uses secondary growth, hedgerows, and gardens where flowering plants are abundant. The species often follows seasonal blooms, shifting locally among habitats as resources change. It can occur near human settlements where ornamental flowers provide nectar.
Altitude Range
0–1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This small hummingbird gleams with a distinctive coppery-green sheen that can look almost bronze in strong light. It is a frequent visitor to flowering shrubs and plays an important role as a pollinator. Males are notably territorial around rich nectar sources, often chasing away other hummingbirds. It adapts well to semi-open habitats and gardens within its native range.
Male coppery emerald
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile hovering and swift, direct dashes
Social Behavior
Typically solitary outside the breeding season, defending nectar sources vigorously from rivals. Nests are small cup structures made of plant down and spider silk, placed on slender branches. The female incubates and raises the young; males do not provide parental care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are thin, high-pitched chips and tseet notes given during foraging and territorial chases. Males may produce rapid, insect-like trills or series of sharp notes from exposed perches.
