The green-throated mango is a species of hummingbird in the subfamily Polytminae. It is found in Brazil, the Guianas, Trinidad, and Venezuela.
Region
Northern South America and Trinidad
Typical Environment
Occurs along coastal and lowland areas of the Guianas, northeastern Brazil, eastern Venezuela, and Trinidad. Most common in mangroves, coastal woodland edges, and riverine forest, but also visits gardens and plantations with flowering trees. It often forages along forest margins and clearings where nectar sources are abundant. Use of mangrove habitats makes it locally concentrated along shorelines.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This hummingbird strongly favors mangrove belts and coastal lowlands, where flowering trees provide reliable nectar. Males are notably territorial and will aggressively defend rich flower patches. Females alone build tiny cup nests and rear the young. Like many mango hummingbirds, it supplements nectar with small insects caught on the wing.
Temperament
territorial and assertive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile hovering
Social Behavior
Generally solitary when foraging, with males defending nectar-rich territories. Courtship occurs within or near feeding areas; males do not assist with nesting. The female builds a small cup nest on a branch, often near water or along forest edges, and lays two eggs.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are high, thin chips and twitters interspersed with buzzy notes. The persistent wing hum is audible during close passes and display flights.
Plumage
Metallic green to bronzy-green upperparts with a slightly forked, dusky-bronze tail. Male shows a glittering green throat and breast, shading to dark bluish-black on the belly. Female has white underparts with a bold black central stripe bordered by green, and green upperparts. Both sexes have a sleek, glossy appearance typical of mango hummingbirds.
Diet
Primarily nectar from a variety of flowering trees and shrubs, including coastal and mangrove species. Also sallies for tiny insects and spiders to obtain protein, especially during breeding. Will visit ornamental flowers and occasionally exploit sap wells made by other species. Feeding strategy mixes territorial defense with short trap-lining circuits.
Preferred Environment
Edges of mangroves, coastal forest margins, and riverbanks rich in blooming trees. Frequently visits gardens, plantations, and second-growth where nectar is abundant.
