The purple-throated carib is a species of hummingbird in the subfamily Polytminae. It is resident on most of the islands of the Lesser Antilles and has occurred as a vagrant both further north and south.
Region
Lesser Antilles
Typical Environment
Found on many islands of the Lesser Antilles, where it occupies humid forests, forest edges, and plantation and garden habitats. It frequents areas rich in flowering plants, especially Heliconia stands. The species also uses secondary growth and coastal thickets when nectar is abundant. It is largely sedentary within islands but may wander locally in response to flowering cycles.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This large hummingbird of the Lesser Antilles is famed for the male’s blazing purple throat and an aggressive, highly territorial demeanor around flower patches. Males and females have differently shaped bills that match different Heliconia flowers, reducing competition between the sexes. It is generally resident year-round but occasionally turns up as a vagrant beyond its core islands.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
hovering specialist with short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically solitary at flowers, where males defend rich nectar sources vigorously against other hummingbirds. Breeding involves simple courtship chases; the female builds a small cup nest on a sheltered branch. Clutches are usually two eggs, and the female alone incubates and feeds the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are sharp, metallic chips and twitters delivered from perches or during chases. The wingbeats create a loud, insect‑like buzz, especially noticeable during hovering displays.
