The Rufous-tailed Hummingbird (Amazilia tzacatl) is a medium-sized hummingbird in the "emeralds", tribe Trochilini of subfamily Trochilinae. It is found from east-central Mexico through Central America and Colombia into Ecuador and Venezuela. The rufous-tailed hummingbird is 9 to 11 cm (3.5 to 4.3 in) long and weighs approximately 5 g (0.18 oz). The adult male of the nominate subspecies has a green head and upperparts except for chestnut-brown lores and uppertail coverts. The tail is also mostly chestnut-brown, giving the species its English name; the feathers' outer webs and tips are bronze green. The throat, upper breast, and sides are green; the throat feathers sometimes have thin white edges giving a scalloped effect. The lower breast is gray, the belly white, and the undertail coverts chestnut-brown. The adult female's lower breast is a paler gray than the male's and the scalloping on the throat is more pronounced. Juveniles have a cinnamon wash to the lower breast and sides and the feathers of the lower back and rump have narrow cinnamon tips. The outer half of the bill's maxilla is black and the inner half red; the mandible is red with a black tip.
Habitats & Distribution
Found primarily in Central America, the Rufous-tailed Hummingbird inhabits a variety of environments ranging from lowland forests and secondary growth to gardens and plantations. This adaptable bird is particularly common in areas with abundant flowering plants, which provide its primary food source. It thrives in elevations from sea level up to around 1,500 meters, though it can occasionally be spotted at higher altitudes. Geographically, the Rufous-tailed Hummingbird's range extends from southern Mexico through Central America and into parts of northern South America, including western Venezuela and Colombia. Its ability to flourish in diverse habitats, from tropical rainforests to urban areas, underscores its resilience and adaptability.
Behaviours & Reproduction
The Rufous-tailed Hummingbird engages in a unique reproductive strategy that revolves around territorial and mating displays. Males are known to be highly territorial, defending their feeding and breeding areas vehemently against intruders. During the breeding season, males perform intricate aerial displays and vocalizations to attract females. Once a male successfully attracts a mate, the female assumes full responsibility for nest building and rearing the young. She constructs a cup-shaped nest using plant fibers and spider silk, often placing it on a low branch or shrub. In terms of social structure, Rufous-tailed Hummingbirds are generally solitary outside of the mating period. Their nests are carefully camouflaged to protect against predators, and the female lays two white eggs, incubating them for about 15-19 days. After hatching, the chicks are entirely dependent on their mother, who feeds them through regurgitation until they fledge about three weeks later. This largely solitary, maternally driven reproductive strategy helps ensure the survival of their progeny in often competitive and resource-scarce environments.
Diet
Feeds on nectar of Heliconia, banana and coffee flowers
Colors
It has a bright green back, which turns lime green when it reaches the rump. The tail is rufous, with dark brown tips. The cloacal area is white and the belly is covered by a mixture of gray and light green feathers.
Fun Facts
Handsome, medium-size hummingbird of humid tropical lowlands. Favors forest edge, second growth, gardens in some areas. Feeds low to high and often comes to feeders.
Conservation Status & Efforts
The Rufous-tailed Hummingbird (Amazilia tzacatl) is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, reflecting its relatively stable population across its extensive range. However, some localized declines have been noted due to deforestation and habitat fragmentation. The primary threats to this species include habitat loss from agricultural expansion, urban development, and logging, which reduce the availability of suitable feeding and nesting sites. Conservation efforts are focused on habitat protection and restoration, particularly in regions where deforestation rates are high. Protected areas and wildlife reserves play a crucial role in preserving habitats vital for the Rufous-tailed Hummingbird. Additionally, initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable land-use practices and reforestation projects help mitigate the impacts of habitat loss. Community education and involvement are also crucial, encouraging local populations to engage in conservation practices that benefit both the hummingbirds and their environment.
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