The planalto hermit is a species of hummingbird. It is found in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, and Peru.
Region
Central South America
Typical Environment
Occurs widely across central and eastern Brazil and extends into eastern Bolivia, Paraguay, northern Argentina, and western Peru. It favors semi-open landscapes including cerrado savanna, caatinga scrub, forest edges, gallery forests, second growth, and plantations. The species readily visits gardens and parks where tubular flowers are abundant. It seeks out nectar sources in both natural and human-modified habitats and often follows a repeatable foraging route.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Planalto Hermit is a medium-sized hummingbird of the Brazilian highlands and adjacent regions, known for its curved bill and distinctive facial stripes. Like many hermits, it follows a traplining routine, visiting a circuit of flowering plants for nectar and also catching tiny insects for protein. Males often sing from low perches and may display in loose leks. It adapts well to semi-open habitats and gardens with abundant flowering shrubs.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile hovering
Social Behavior
Typically forages alone along a regular route (traplining) between nectar sources. Males may sing from repeated perches and participate in loose leks to attract females. The nest is a small cup attached to the underside of a drooping leaf or similar support, often overhanging water or well-concealed in vegetation.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song consists of repetitive, thin, squeaky phrases delivered from a low perch. Calls include sharp tsip notes and high, buzzy trills given in quick sequence.
