The streak-throated hermit, also known as the Rupurumi hermit, is a species of hummingbird in the family Trochilidae. It is found in Brazil, Colombia, Guyana, and Venezuela.
Region
Guiana Shield and northern Amazon Basin
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland forests of Guyana, Venezuela, northern Brazil, and eastern Colombia. It frequents humid understory along streams and in gallery forest, as well as white-sand (campinarana) and riverine thickets. The species uses forest edges and secondary growth where nectar plants are abundant. It is generally local but can be fairly common where suitable flowering plants occur.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The streak-throated hermit, also called the Rupununi Hermit, is a small hummingbird specialized for trapline foraging, visiting a circuit of flowers for nectar. Males often sing from low understory perches and may gather in loose leks. It favors riverine and white-sand forests of the Guiana Shield. Its decurved bill matches tubular flowers such as Heliconia and Costus.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile hovering
Social Behavior
Uses trapline foraging, visiting a repeated route of flowering plants. Males may sing from exposed understory perches and participate in loose leks. The nest is a small cup of plant fibers and spider silk suspended beneath a broad leaf, with a typical clutch of two white eggs.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of thin, high-pitched, repetitive whistles delivered from a low perch. Calls include sharp tsi notes and soft chips during foraging.
