Blue-tailed Emerald
Chlorostilbon mellisugus
Order: Apodiformes / Family: Trochilidae
About the Blue-tailed Emerald
The Blue-tailed Emerald (Chlorostilbon mellisugus) is a small yet captivating member of the Trochilidae family, commonly found in tropical regions of South America. This hummingbird species is renowned for its iridescent green plumage and distinctive blue tail, which make it a visual delight for birdwatchers. It occupies a significant ecological niche by aiding in the pollination of various flowering plants. The Blue-tailed Emerald is often seen flitting through the understory of forests, gardens, and plantations, particularly in countries like Brazil, Colombia, and Venezuela. This bird's role in ecosystems is crucial, as it transfers pollen while feeding, thus contributing to the reproduction of numerous plant species. In addition to its ecological importance, the Blue-tailed Emerald offers aesthetic appreciation, being sought after by both amateur and professional birders.
Found predominantly in lowland tropical forests, including moist and dry forests, this hummingbird adapts to various environments, including urban gardens and rural plantations. Its ability to thrive in such diverse habitats highlights its adaptability. Seasonal movements are less pronounced in the Blue-tailed Emerald than in more temperate species, though some local movements may occur in response to flowering cycles of its preferred plants. During the dry season, when natural nectar sources become scarce, these birds may shift closer to human-populated areas where ornamental plants provide ample food. The Blue-tailed Emerald's resilience to habitat changes helps maintain stable populations across its range.
In the breeding season, which typically coincides with the onset of the rainy season, the Blue-tailed Emerald engages in intricate courtship displays. These involve aerial acrobatics and vocalizations that attract females. The bird's breeding cycle is synchronized with periods of high flower abundance, ensuring ample feeding opportunities for both adults and fledglings. Through these behaviors, the Blue-tailed Emerald underscores the intricate connections between avian life cycles and their environments.
The Blue-tailed Emerald belongs to the family Trochilidae, within the order Apodiformes. These birds typically live average 4-5 years, with a maximum recorded of 9 years..
How to Identify a Blue-tailed Emerald
Identifying the Blue-tailed Emerald involves observing its distinct coloration and structure. Adults showcase a vibrant metallic green overall body with a shimmering blue tail, a feature that provides its name. The contrast between the brilliant green and blue tail feathers is a key identifier. Males and females exhibit similar coloration, though females may appear slightly duller, lacking the males' vivid sheen.
Juvenile Blue-tailed Emeralds resemble adults but with more subdued coloring and shorter tail feathers. This difference in tail development is noticeable during their early months. Unlike many bird species, there is minimal sexual dimorphism, and both sexes share the iridescent qualities that are characteristic of their family.
In flight, the Blue-tailed Emerald presents a rapid, darting silhouette typical of hummingbirds, with a blur of colorful feathers. Its perching posture is upright, often on thin branches or wires, which allows easy viewing of its full plumage. While confusion with other hummingbird species is possible, the unique combination of bright green and blue tail helps distinguish the Blue-tailed Emerald from others in its range.
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Blue-tailed Emerald Habitat and Range
Preferred Habitat
The Blue-tailed Emerald thrives in a variety of tropical habitats across South America. It is commonly found in lowland rainforests, secondary growth forests, and scrublands. These birds are well-adapted to both moist and dry forest environments, often seen in areas where flowering plants are abundant.
In terms of elevation, the Blue-tailed Emerald typically inhabits regions up to 1,200 meters above sea level, although it prefers lower altitudes where climatic conditions favor abundant floral resources. During dry spells or adverse weather conditions, Blue-tailed Emeralds may venture into urban gardens or agricultural lands, drawn by cultivated flowers that provide a reliable food source.
Despite its adaptability, the Blue-tailed Emerald favors areas with a rich understory of flowering plants, which are critical for its nectar diet. While it is common in rural settings, it is also a familiar sight in suburban and urban areas, benefiting from the ornamental plants found in gardens.
Geographic Range
The geographic range of the Blue-tailed Emerald extends across northern and central South America. This hummingbird species is widespread in countries such as Brazil, Colombia, Venezuela, and Peru. It is a resident breeder in these regions, with no extensive migratory patterns, although some local movements occur in search of food resources.
In the Amazon Basin, the Blue-tailed Emerald is particularly abundant, benefiting from the diverse floral array available year-round. The population density tends to be higher in areas with a rich supply of nectar-producing plants. While its range overlaps with other hummingbird species, the Blue-tailed Emerald maintains a broad distribution due to its adaptable feeding habits.
The lack of significant long-distance migration allows the Blue-tailed Emerald to remain a year-round inhabitant of its native regions. Its presence throughout the year in these tropical areas ensures its role as a constant pollinator, contributing to the ecological stability of its habitats.
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What Does the Blue-tailed Emerald Eat?
The diet of the Blue-tailed Emerald primarily consists of nectar from a wide range of flowering plants. It feeds on the nectar of tubular flowers, which provide the high-energy diet required for its rapid metabolism. Common nectar sources include various species of Heliconia, Inga, and Erythrina. These birds prefer flowers with high sucrose content, which fuels their energetic lifestyle.
Aside from nectar, the Blue-tailed Emerald also consumes small insects and spiders, providing essential proteins and nutrients. This behavior is particularly observed during the breeding season when the nutritional demands are higher. The hummingbird employs a technique known as "hawking" to catch insects in mid-air or gleans them from foliage.
Feeding primarily occurs during daylight hours, with peak activity in early morning and late afternoon. The bird's feeding schedule aligns with the opening times of its preferred flowers. Seasonal changes in flowering patterns may lead to shifts in diet, with the Blue-tailed Emerald adapting to available resources in its habitat.
Want to attract Blue-tailed Emeralds to your yard? See our recommended feeders and seed types for the best results.
Blue-tailed Emerald Behavior and Social Structure
The Blue-tailed Emerald exhibits a solitary and territorial demeanor typical of many hummingbirds. Males aggressively defend feeding territories, especially during the breeding season, using vocalizations and aerial displays to deter intruders.
Courtship involves complex aerial displays, where males perform rapid dives and loops to attract females. These displays are both a show of strength and a means to establish dominance within a territory. Once paired, the birds tend to remain in close proximity but do not form long-term pair bonds.
In terms of daily activity, the Blue-tailed Emerald is most active during the early morning and late afternoon. Its behavior towards predators is cautious, relying on its agility and speed to evade threats. The bird's small size and rapid flight make it less vulnerable, although it remains vigilant against larger bird species and reptiles.
Flocking is uncommon except in areas where food sources are particularly abundant, leading to the temporary congregation of individuals. Outside of these conditions, the Blue-tailed Emerald prefers solitude or the company of a mate within its territory.
Blue-tailed Emerald Nesting and Reproduction
Nesting for the Blue-tailed Emerald begins with the female selecting a suitable site, typically a thin horizontal branch or a fork in a shrub. The nest is a small cup-shaped structure intricately woven from plant fibers and spider silk, providing both strength and flexibility.
The female lays two white eggs, which she incubates alone over a period of 14 to 17 days. During incubation, the female remains vigilant, leaving the nest only to feed. After hatching, both chicks are altricial, requiring intensive care. The female solely provides for them, feeding regurgitated nectar and insects.
Fledging occurs approximately 20 to 22 days post-hatching, with young birds gradually becoming independent. The typical number of broods per year varies, although two broods are common in regions with prolonged flowering seasons. Parental investment is significant, ensuring high fledgling survival rates in suitable conditions.
Blue-tailed Emerald Sounds and Vocalizations
The Blue-tailed Emerald's primary song is a series of high-pitched, rapid trills, often described as a metallic chatter. This song serves as a territorial marker and a courtship display.
Call notes are sharp and quick, used for communication between individuals or as alarm calls when predators approach. These calls can be compared to the sound of a fast-moving stream, clear and persistent.
During the dawn chorus, the Blue-tailed Emerald is less vocal than many songbirds, contributing mainly through short calls rather than continuous singing. Its vocalizations are distinct within its habitat, aiding in territory establishment and mating rituals.
Interesting Facts About the Blue-tailed Emerald
- 1The Blue-tailed Emerald can beat its wings up to 80 times per second during flight, allowing it to hover in place.
- 2Despite their small size, Blue-tailed Emeralds have a heart rate that can exceed 1,200 beats per minute under exertion.
- 3These hummingbirds can consume up to twice their body weight in nectar and insects each day, supporting their high metabolism.
- 4The iridescent feathers of the Blue-tailed Emerald result from microscopic platelets that refract light, not pigments.
- 5Blue-tailed Emeralds are capable of migrating short distances within their range, tracking the availability of flowering plants.
- 6Their tiny nests, often less than 5 centimeters in diameter, are expertly camouflaged with lichens and moss.
- 7Blue-tailed Emeralds play a critical role in cross-pollinating plants, affecting the genetic diversity of their ecosystems.
Blue-tailed Emerald Conservation Status
Currently categorized as 'Least Concern' by the IUCN, the Blue-tailed Emerald benefits from a stable population trend. Its adaptability to various habitats, including human-altered landscapes, contributes to its resilience. Primary threats include habitat destruction due to deforestation and land conversion for agriculture. However, the species' ability to thrive in secondary growth and urban gardens mitigates some impacts. Conservation efforts focus on preserving forested areas and promoting nectar-rich plantings in urban landscapes. Historically, the Blue-tailed Emerald has maintained stable populations, reflecting its adaptability and the abundance of suitable habitats across its range.
Attracting Blue-tailed Emeralds to Your Feeder
The Blue-tailed Emerald is a regular visitor to backyard bird feeders across its range. At the Eye On The Fly feeding station, we observe Blue-tailed Emeralds regularly and capture footage with our feeder cameras.
