The Hispaniolan mango is a species of hummingbird in the subfamily Polytminae. It is endemic to the Caribbean island of Hispaniola.
Region
Greater Antilles (Hispaniola)
Typical Environment
Occurs across most of Hispaniola, including coastal lowlands, foothills, and interior valleys, and on adjacent offshore islands. It frequents forest edges, dry to moist woodland, plantations, mangroves, and urban gardens. The species readily uses flowering trees and shrubs in human-modified landscapes. It is generally common where nectar sources are abundant and perches conspicuously while guarding territories.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This large, robust hummingbird is confined to the island of Hispaniola and nearby islets. It is a vigorous defender of flower patches and adapts well to gardens and plantations. Like other hummingbirds, it is an important pollinator of native and ornamental plants. Males and females differ notably in underpart patterning, aiding quick field identification.
Female Antillean mango, Dominican Republic
Temperament
assertive and territorial
Flight Pattern
rapid wingbeats with agile hovering
Social Behavior
Mostly solitary outside of breeding and concentrates around rich nectar sources, which individuals defend vigorously. Nests are small cups of plant down bound with spider silk, placed on horizontal branches or human structures. Breeding timing varies locally with flower availability, and females alone incubate and rear the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are high, thin chips and sharp tsip notes delivered while foraging or chasing intruders. Males add rapid twittering and insect-like buzzes during displays. Wing hum is audible at close range.
