Thaumasius baeri
The Tumbes Hummingbird (Thaumasius baeri) is a small and distinctive hummingbird, measuring approximately 9-10 cm in length and weighing a mere 3-4 grams, characteristic of its highly active lifestyle. Males exhibit striking greenish-bronze upperparts, contrasting with duller bronze on the rump, and a clear white post-ocular spot that aids in identification. Their underparts are white with iridescent green flanks and prominent rufous patches on the sides, making them quite unique among hummin...
Found primarily in arid and semi-arid deciduous forests, scrublands, and open woodlands. This species prefers low-elevation zones, typically below 1000 meters.
Primarily consumes nectar from a variety of flowering plants, particularly those adapted to arid conditions. It supplements its diet with small arthropods, such as insects and spiders, gleaned from foliage or caught in mid-air.
Active during daylight hours, the Tumbes Hummingbird typically forages by either trap-lining, visiting a circuit of scattered flowers, or by aggressively defending a patch of favored blooms from rivals. Males are particularly territorial, performing aerial chases and vocalizations to ward off oth...
The Tumbes Hummingbird is a resident species, with its entire distribution confined to the arid and semi-arid regions of southwestern Ecuador and northwestern Peru. In Ecuador, it is found in the provinces of El Oro and Loja. Further south, its range extends into several regions of Peru, includin...
Least Concern
- The Tumbes Hummingbird is endemic to a very specific, restricted range in southwestern Ecuador and northwestern Peru, making it a true regional specialist. - Despite its small size, it boasts an incredibly high metabolism, requiring it to feed almost constantly throughout the day to sustain its...