The wedge-tailed sabrewing is a species of hummingbird in the "emeralds", tribe Trochilini of subfamily Trochilinae. It is found in Belize, Guatemala, Mexico, and possibly Honduras.
Region
Mesoamerica
Typical Environment
Occurs from the Gulf-slope lowlands and foothills of eastern and southeastern Mexico south into northern Guatemala and Belize, with possible occurrence in adjacent Honduras. It inhabits humid evergreen and semi-deciduous forests, ravines, and forest edges, as well as shaded agroforestry such as coffee plantations. Birds often utilize second growth and thickets near watercourses. They are typically resident but may shift locally with flowering availability.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A large hummingbird, the wedge-tailed sabrewing often frequents shaded coffee farms and forest edges, showing some tolerance of light habitat disturbance. The name “sabrewing” refers to the male’s thickened, saber-shaped primary flight feathers, which can create audible mechanical sounds during display flights. It is part of the emeralds (tribe Trochilini) and occurs from southeastern Mexico into Belize and Guatemala.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile hovering
Social Behavior
Adults are typically solitary at flowers and males defend rich nectar sources aggressively. Courtship may include display flights that emphasize the sabre-like primaries. Nests are compact cups made of plant fibers and spider silk, usually placed on low horizontal branches or in sheltered ravines. The female alone incubates and cares for the two eggs.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a loud, ringing series of clear whistles delivered from a perch, often repeated in deliberate sequences. Calls include sharp chips and trills, with wing sounds sometimes audible during close display flights.
Plumage
Iridescent emerald-green upperparts with a darker mask and contrasting pale facial stripe; underparts grayish to gray-green with some green gloss on the flanks. Tail appears dark bronze-green and slightly wedge-shaped with pale tips. Males have broadened, sabre-like primaries.
Diet
Feeds primarily on nectar from a wide variety of tubular flowers, including forest understory blooms and edge shrubs. It supplements nectar with small arthropods, which are gleaned from foliage or hawked in short sallies. Insects provide essential protein, especially during breeding. Individuals often follow flowering cycles and may exploit gardens and shade coffee for reliable resources.
Preferred Environment
Forages along forest edges, ravines, and semi-open understory where flowering plants are abundant. Frequently visits shaded plantations and secondary growth that maintain native floral resources.
