The emerald-chinned hummingbird is a species of hummingbird in the "emeralds", tribe Trochilini of subfamily Trochilinae. It is found in El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, and Nicaragua.
Region
Mesoamerica
Typical Environment
Occurs from southern Mexico south through Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, and Nicaragua. It favors humid evergreen and cloud forests, forest edges, and semi-open areas with abundant flowering shrubs. The species readily uses secondary growth and shaded coffee farms where native understory plants persist. It forages mostly in the understory to midstory, especially along stream corridors and clearings.
Altitude Range
600–2200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This tiny hummingbird is the sole member of its genus and is named for the male’s glowing emerald-green chin. It frequents humid montane and foothill forests and often visits shaded coffee plantations. Like most hummingbirds, it feeds on nectar but supplements its diet with small insects for protein. Habitat loss in Central America is a concern, though the species remains fairly widespread.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with precise hovering
Social Behavior
Typically forages alone and defends rich flower patches from other small hummingbirds. Courtship involves rapid shuttle displays by the male; there is no long-term pair bond. The nest is a tiny cup of plant fibers and spider silk placed on a horizontal branch, usually low to mid understory, with clutches of two eggs.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are thin, high-pitched tsee and tzip notes, often given from a low exposed perch. Males add rapid chips and buzzy trills during display. Overall the song is simple and quiet compared to larger hummingbirds.
