The plain-bellied emerald is a species of hummingbird in the "emeralds", tribe Trochilini of subfamily Trochilinae. It is found in Brazil, the Guianas, and Venezuela.
Region
Northern and Eastern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs from eastern Venezuela through the Guianas and much of northern and eastern Brazil, including coastal zones. It frequents mangroves, river islands, seasonally flooded (várzea) forest edges, gallery forests, and scrubby second growth. The species also uses open woodlands, savanna patches with scattered trees, and urban gardens with flowering shrubs. It is primarily a lowland bird and is often most common along waterways and coastal fringes.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This small hummingbird of the emerald tribe thrives in coastal mangroves and riverine edges, often venturing into gardens and parks. Males defend rich nectar sources aggressively, chasing other hummingbirds. The female builds a tiny cup nest from plant down bound with spider silk and typically lays two eggs. It adapts well to secondary growth, which helps keep its populations stable.
Temperament
territorial and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile hovering
Social Behavior
Generally solitary outside of breeding and foraging hotspots, but multiple birds may gather at rich flowering trees. Males defend feeding territories vigorously. The female alone constructs a small cup nest on a horizontal branch and incubates two eggs.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are thin, high-pitched tseet and tzip notes, with brief buzzy trills. During chases it gives rapid chatters, and the wing hum is audible at close range.
