The white-browed hermit is a species of hummingbird in the family Trochilidae. It is found in the Andean foothills and adjacent lowlands in Bolivia and Peru. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest.
Region
Central Andes foothills
Typical Environment
Occurs along the eastern Andean foothills of southeastern Peru and northern Bolivia, primarily in humid tropical forests. It favors dense understory along streams, forest edges, and clearings with abundant heliconias and ginger relatives. The species uses both primary and well-regenerated secondary forest. It is most often encountered in shaded ravines and bamboo or Heliconia thickets where nectar is plentiful.
Altitude Range
200–1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The white-browed hermit is a small hummingbird noted for its conspicuous pale eyebrow and long, decurved bill adapted to tubular flowers. Like many hermits, it follows a trapline, visiting a regular circuit of nectar sources deep in the forest understory. It also supplements its diet with tiny insects and spiders for protein. Nests are often suspended beneath broad leaves over streams or shaded gullies.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with frequent hovering
Social Behavior
Generally solitary away from nectar sources, defending small feeding territories within dense understory. Males often display and sing from low, shaded perches and may participate in loose leks. The nest is a small cup suspended from the underside of a broad leaf, often overhanging water for added protection.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A high, thin series of squeaks and tsee notes delivered repetitively from a concealed perch. Calls are sharp and insect-like, carrying surprisingly well in dense vegetation.
