The white-throated mountaingem or white-throated mountain-gem is a species of hummingbird in tribe Lampornithini of subfamily Trochilinae. It is endemic to the highlands of Costa Rica and Panama.
Region
Costa Rican and Panamanian Highlands
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid montane and cloud forests, especially along edges, clearings, and second-growth with abundant flowering shrubs. It frequents oak–laurel forests, forest roadsides, and highland gardens, and readily visits native and ornamental flowers. Shade coffee and disturbed habitats with rich bloom can also be used. The species often tracks seasonal flowering within the highlands and uses perches to watch and defend nectar sources.
Altitude Range
1200–3200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This highland hummingbird is endemic to the mountains of Costa Rica and western Panama. Males show a striking white throat above a chestnut belly, while females have warmer buff underparts and a bold pale eye-stripe. It fiercely defends flower patches and is an important pollinator of montane plants.
Male
Female
Temperament
territorial and energetic
Flight Pattern
rapid hover with short, darting flights
Social Behavior
Usually solitary at flowers; males vigorously defend flowering shrubs and trees against other hummingbirds. Nests are small cups placed on horizontal branches or sheltered forks, often near streams or along forest edges. Pairs are seasonal, with the female solely responsible for incubation and chick rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are thin, high-pitched chips and buzzy tseet notes, delivered from exposed perches. Males also produce short, dry trills and chatters during territorial encounters.
