The long-tailed woodnymph is a species of hummingbird in the family Trochilidae. It is found in humid forest in northeastern Brazil, where it is known from the states of Pernambuco, Alagoas, Sergipe and the northernmost Bahia. It is usually thought to be widespread, but seen at low density in its increasingly fragmented range. Its population is estimated to be around 1,000–2,500 individuals, currently in decline due to deforestation and habitat loss.
Region
Northeastern Brazil (Atlantic Forest)
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid lowland and foothill evergreen forest, riverine forest, and tall secondary growth. It also uses forest edges and shaded cacao plantations where native understory plants persist. Most activity is in the understory to midstory, where it visits a variety of tubular flowers. The species is patchy and generally scarce, reflecting severe habitat fragmentation across its range.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This hummingbird is an Atlantic Forest endemic of northeastern Brazil and an important pollinator of understory flowers. Males are notably long-tailed and highly territorial around rich nectar sources. The species persists at low densities in small forest fragments and shaded cacao agroforests but is very sensitive to ongoing deforestation. Conservation actions focus on protecting and reconnecting remaining humid forest remnants.
Temperament
territorial and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile hovering
Social Behavior
Usually solitary while foraging; males aggressively defend flower patches from rivals. Breeding involves the female alone building a tiny cup nest of plant fibers and spider silk on a horizontal branch. Clutch is typically two eggs, with the female solely responsible for incubation and chick care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are thin, high-pitched tsip and tsee notes, often given in rapid series during chases. Wing hum is audible at close range, and soft twitters may accompany territorial displays.
