O jacobino de pescoço branco (Florisuga mellivora) é um colibri bastante grande e espetacular das planícies tropicais húmidas que prefere as orlas das florestas, as clareiras adjacentes com árvores e arbustos floridos dispersos e os jardins. Alimenta-se a todos os níveis, muitas vezes na copa das árvores, pairando com a cauda armada e, ocasionalmente, abrindo-a para mostrar um extenso branco.
Habitats e distribuição
The White-necked Jacobin primarily inhabits the lowland rainforests, secondary forests, and forest edges, favoring locations with abundant flowering plants that provide ample nectar. This species is commonly found at elevations up to 1,200 meters but is most frequently seen in areas below 900 meters. In addition to primary forests, they can adapt to more disturbed habitats such as gardens and plantations, as long as food sources are available. Geographically, the White-necked Jacobin's range extends from southern Mexico, through Central America, and into northern South America, reaching as far south as western Brazil and eastern Peru. They are especially prevalent in humid tropical regions, frequently seen throughout countries like Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, and Ecuador. The bird's broad range and ability to thrive in various environmental conditions allow it to maintain stable population numbers across its distribution.
Comportamentos e reprodução
White-necked Jacobins exhibit a lekking behavior during the breeding season, where males congregate in specific areas to perform elaborate displays and compete for female attention. These displays often include rapid flight maneuvers, vocalizations, and the exhibition of their vibrant plumage. Females visit these leks to choose a mate based on the males' performances, favoring those with the most impressive displays. Once mating occurs, the female assumes sole responsibility for nest building, incubation, and rearing of the chicks. She constructs a cup-shaped nest, typically on a low, horizontal branch or in a shrub, using plant fibers and spider silk for strength and camouflage. After laying one or two eggs, the female incubates them for about 17-19 days until they hatch. The chicks fledge approximately 20-26 days after hatching, during which time the female continues to feed and care for them diligently.
Dieta
Néctar e pequenos insectos
Cores
O macho tem capuz azul escuro, partes superiores verdes com colarinho branco (muitas vezes difícil de ver), partes inferiores brancas e cauda maioritariamente branca. Algumas fêmeas são semelhantes aos machos, enquanto outras são muito diferentes, com manchas escuras por baixo e uma cauda maioritariamente verde com as pontas brancas.
Factos divertidos
São conhecidos pelo seu voo rápido e ágil, pairando perto das flores e alimentando-se de néctar. São territoriais e defendem os territórios de alimentação contra outros colibris. Estes beija-flores têm um zumbido agudo que é frequentemente ouvido durante as exibições de cortejo.
Estado de conservação e esforços
The White-necked Jacobin is currently listed as "Least Concern" on the IUCN Red List due to its large range and presumably large population. Population trends appear to be stable, with no significant declines observed. However, localized threats such as habitat destruction due to deforestation and land conversion for agriculture could potentially impact certain populations. Despite these threats, the species' adaptability to various habitats, including secondary forests and gardens, aids its resilience. Conservation efforts for the White-necked Jacobin primarily focus on habitat preservation, particularly in tropical and subtropical forests. Protected areas and national parks within its range play a crucial role in safeguarding adequate habitats. Additionally, community-based conservation initiatives and sustainable land-use practices promote the preservation of forested areas, indirectly benefiting this species. Further research and monitoring are essential to ensure that potential threats do not escalate and to maintain the current stable population trends.
Galeria
