Long-tailed Hermit

The Long-tailed Hermit, Phaethornis superciliosus, presents itself as a large hummingbird with a predominantly dull brownish-green plumage above and a buff-tinged rump. This species is distinguished by its impressive tail and size, being the largest of the hermit hummingbirds, with a body length of approximately 15 cm (5.9 in) and a weight of 6.3 g (0.22 oz).

Identification Tips

Upon closer inspection, one can observe the dark mask through the eye of the Long-tailed Hermit, which is bordered by whitish-buff stripes above and below. The underparts are a pale greyish-buff, and both sexes share a similar appearance, though the female is marginally smaller. The bill is notably long and decurved, measuring between 3.6 to 4.3 cm, with a red-tipped black lower mandible. The central tail feathers are elongated, measuring 6.3 to 6.8 cm, and are tipped with white.

Habitat

This species favors the dense undergrowth of forests, often found in proximity to water and its preferred food sources, such as large flowers.

Distribution

The Long-tailed Hermit is a resident breeder in South America, with its range encompassing southern Venezuela, the Guianas, and northern Brazil, both north and south of the Amazon.

Behaviour

The Long-tailed Hermit does not defend a territory but instead follows a trap-line feeding strategy, visiting seasonal flowers along routes that can extend up to 1 km through the forest. During the breeding season, males engage in communal lek singing, which can occupy a significant portion of the daylight hours, with the intent of attracting females. The female is solely responsible for nest construction, incubation, and feeding the young, laying two white eggs in a conical nest made of fibers and cobwebs, typically suspended under a large Heliconia or banana leaf.

Song & Calls

The male's song is characterized by sharp "tsuk" sounds, which are performed during competitive lek singing to attract a mate.

Breeding

The female Long-tailed Hermit single-handedly undertakes the building of the nest, incubation of the eggs, and feeding of the hatchlings. The nest is a conical structure suspended under foliage, where she lays two white eggs.

Diet and Feeding

The diet consists primarily of nectar from large flowers such as Heliconias, gingers, and passion flowers. Additionally, small insects and spiders are consumed as an essential protein source, with the female regurgitating invertebrates to feed her hatchlings.

Conservation Status

The Long-tailed Hermit is currently classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that it is not at immediate risk of population decline.