Phaethornis griseogularis
The Grey-chinned Hermit (Phaethornis griseogularis) is a diminutive yet distinctive hummingbird belonging to the hermit subfamily Phaethornithinae, renowned for its understated beauty and specialized foraging strategies. Measuring approximately 10-11 cm in length, including its characteristically long, decurved bill, and weighing a mere 2.5-3.5 grams, it is one of the smaller hermits in its range. Its plumage features dull bronzy-green upperparts, a rufous-orange rump, and a defining grayish ...
This hermit primarily inhabits the dense understory of lowland and foothill evergreen forests, secondary growth, and forest edges, often near streams. It is typically found at elevations ranging from 100 to 1500 meters.
Its primary diet consists of nectar, extracted from a wide variety of flowering plants with long, tubular corollas. Small arthropods, such as spiders and insects, are also consumed for essential protein, often gleaned from foliage.
Grey-chinned Hermits are solitary and primarily diurnal, spending their days meticulously foraging and defending their trap-lining routes. They employ a specialized foraging strategy known as 'trap-lining,' repeatedly visiting a circuit of scattered, nectar-rich flowers over an extended area. Bey...
The Grey-chinned Hermit (Phaethornis griseogularis) is a resident species distributed across northern South America. Its extensive breeding range includes eastern Colombia, southern Venezuela, eastern Ecuador, eastern Peru, and northwestern Brazil. While there are three recognized subspecies—P. g...
Least Concern
- The Grey-chinned Hermit is among the smaller members of the hermit hummingbird subfamily, a group known for their more subdued plumage compared to other 'jewel' hummingbirds. - Its long, decurved bill is a perfect example of co-evolution, precisely adapted to access nectar from deep, tubular fl...