Adelomyia melanogenys
The Speckled Hummingbird (*Adelomyia melanogenys*) is a charmingly distinct species, typically measuring 8-9 cm (3.1-3.5 inches) in length and weighing between 3.1 and 5.1 grams. Its iridescent bronze-green upperparts provide a subtle contrast to its defining feature: a prominently speckled white throat and breast, set against a striking dark blackish-brown cheek patch, from which its scientific name 'melanogenys' (black cheek) derives. A clear white post-ocular stripe further enhances its he...
This hummingbird primarily inhabits the understory and edges of humid montane cloud forests and moist evergreen forests, favoring areas with dense vegetation and moss-laden trees. It is typically found at elevations ranging from 500 to 2,500 meters (1,600-8,200 feet), though locally it can occur ...
The diet consists primarily of nectar, obtained from a variety of small to medium-sized flowering plants, often in the forest understory. They also supplement their diet significantly with small arthropods, which they glean from foliage or capture in short aerial sallies.
Speckled Hummingbirds are diurnal, actively foraging throughout the day but are most conspicuous during peak flowering periods in their montane forest habitats. They employ a flexible foraging strategy, including 'trap-lining' where they visit a regular circuit of flowers, but also opportunistic ...
The Speckled Hummingbird is a widespread resident species with a disjunct distribution extending from Central America through much of the Andean chain in South America. Its northern range includes the highlands of Costa Rica and western Panama. From there, it continues southward through the Andes...
Least Concern
- The scientific name *melanogenys* literally translates from Greek as 'black cheek', perfectly describing its most prominent identification feature. - It is the only species in its genus, *Adelomyia*, making it a unique evolutionary branch within the diverse hummingbird family. - Unlike many lar...