Phaethornis eurynome
The Scale-throated Hermit, *Phaethornis eurynome*, is a medium-sized hummingbird renowned for its distinctive 'scaled' throat and characteristic long, decurved bill. Measuring approximately 14 cm (5.5 in) in length and weighing 4-6 grams, its plumage features an olive-green back, a coppery-red rump, and a greyish-brown to reddish-ochre belly. Key field marks include a dark facial mask bordered by pale buff stripes and, most notably, a mottled or scaly-looking throat caused by dusky feathers w...
This hermit exclusively inhabits the understory of humid Atlantic Forest and its associated secondary growth, primarily found from sea level up to 1,800 meters elevation.
Primarily feeds on nectar extracted from a variety of long-tubular flowers, supplemented by small insects and spiders gleaned from vegetation.
The Scale-throated Hermit is a diurnal and largely solitary bird, often seen skulking quietly in dense forest undergrowth. It employs a 'traplining' foraging strategy, repeatedly visiting a circuit of nectar-producing flowers, and also gleans small insects and spiders from foliage. Males are well...
The Scale-throated Hermit is an endemic resident of the Atlantic Forest biome in South America. Its primary range extends across eastern and southeastern Brazil, from the state of Bahia south through Minas Gerais, Espírito Santo, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Paraná, Santa Catarina, and Rio Grande d...
Least Concern
- The 'Scale-throated' name comes from the unique mottled appearance of its throat feathers. - Like other hermits, it practices 'traplining,' visiting a regular circuit of flowers to feed. - Males are renowned for their lekking behavior, gathering at specific sites to sing and display for females...