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Colibri thalassinus (Green Violetear)
Although among the tiniest birds in the world, hummingbirds
are still some of the most spectacular. Incredibly fast in flight,
they are the only bird able to fly forward as well as backward.
Their habitat ranges from southern Mexico through Central
America, and along mountain slopes of northwestern South
America from northern Venezuela to central Bolivia.
Description
The Colibri thalassinus, also known as the Green Violetear, is a
medium-sized member of the hummingbird family. It averages
around 3.8–4.7 in. (9.7–12 cm) in length, weighs from 0.17 to
0.20 oz. (4.8 to 5.6 g), and has a wingspan of between 2.3–2.7
in. (5.8–6.8 cm).
Behavior
Like most hummingbirds, the Green Violetear is a solitary bird
that prefers to forage alone. It feeds primarily on small insects
and nectar, using its long bill and ability to hover to lap up
the nectar from flower heads. After mating, the male Green
Violetear has nothing to do with nesting or the offspring. The
female hummingbird incubates the eggs and cares for the
young for 18–24 days until they are mature enough to leave
the nest and begin foraging on their own.
Did you know?
Hummingbirds can hover in midair, fly sideways, and even fly
upside down.
A hummingbird's wings beat about 70 times per second
during normal flight. This increases to 200 times per second
when diving.
Hummingbirds can hear better and see farther than humans can.
Hummingbirds do not drink through their long beaks like a
straw. They lap up nectar with their tongues.
Hummingbirds have very weak legs and feet, and can barely
walk. They prefer to perch or fly.
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