The glittering-throated emerald is a species of hummingbird in the "emeralds", tribe Trochilini of subfamily Trochilinae. It is found in Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, the Guianas, Peru, Trinidad and Venezuela.
Region
Amazon Basin and northern South America, including Trinidad
Typical Environment
Found widely from eastern Colombia and Venezuela through the Guianas and much of Brazil, south into Bolivia, and west into Ecuador and Peru; also present on Trinidad. Prefers lowland habitats including forest edges, riparian woodland, second-growth thickets, cerrado and savanna with scattered trees, plantations, and city parks. Often occurs near flowering shrubs and trees and is tolerant of disturbed areas. Common around human settlements where nectar sources and feeders are available.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A small hummingbird with a brilliant emerald-green throat that flashes in good light, it readily visits gardens and feeders as well as natural forest edges. It is highly adaptable and can thrive in second-growth habitats and urban green spaces. Like most hummingbirds, it consumes both nectar and tiny insects for protein. Males aggressively defend rich flower patches with rapid chases and display flights.
Temperament
territorial and alert
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; agile hoverer
Social Behavior
Generally solitary around feeding sites, with males vigorously defending nectar sources from rivals. Breeding involves a small cup nest built by the female on a horizontal branch or fork; typical clutch is two tiny white eggs. The female undertakes incubation and chick rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are high, thin chips and insect-like trills delivered intermittently from perches. Wing hum is audible at close range, especially during chases and display flights.
Plumage
Bronzy to bright green upperparts with a glittering emerald-green throat and upper chest; underparts pale gray to whitish with some green mottling on the sides. Tail often shows rufous to coppery tones with darker tips; wings dusky. Sexes are similar, females slightly duller with shorter tails.
Diet
Takes nectar from a wide range of tubular and brushy flowers on shrubs and trees, and frequently visits garden ornamentals and feeders. Supplements nectar with small arthropods captured by hawking from a perch or gleaned from foliage and spider webs. Feeding is opportunistic and tracks seasonal flowering.
Preferred Environment
Edges of tropical forest, river corridors, second growth, gardens, parks, and semi-open savannas with scattered flowering trees and shrubs. Often forages at mid-levels to canopy but will also feed at low, accessible blooms.
