The grey-chinned hermit is a species of hummingbird in the family Trochilidae. It is found in Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela.
Region
Northern South America (Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru, northwest Brazil)
Typical Environment
Occupies humid lowland and foothill forests, especially dense understory along streams and in ravines. It frequents forest edges, secondary growth, bamboo thickets, and Heliconia-rich areas where tubular flowers are abundant. Often stays low to mid-understory, moving rapidly between shaded nectar sources. It tolerates some habitat disturbance if understory structure remains intact.
Altitude Range
100–1600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This small hermit hummingbird practices trap-lining, visiting a repeat circuit of nectar sources in dark forest understory. Males often sing from low, shaded perches and may form loose leks. Its gray-washed chin and throat help separate it from similar hermits. It also supplements nectar with tiny arthropods for protein.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile hovering
Social Behavior
Mostly solitary outside of leks, following a trap-line route through the understory. Males may gather loosely to sing from low perches to attract females. Nest is a small cup attached to the underside of a broad leaf or root, bound with spider silk and plant fibers.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of thin, high-pitched tseep or tsee notes, delivered persistently from a shaded perch. Calls are sharp and insect-like, carrying surprisingly well in dense vegetation. Males may sing for long periods during lek displays.
