Beautiful Birds of Belize Blog – Post #4

By Jim Gain

3/28/2023

• Scientific Name: Phaethornis longirostris
• Name in Spanish (Mexico): Colibrí Ermitaño Mesoamericano
• ABA 4-Letter Bird Code: LBIH*
• Family: Trochilidae – Hummingbirds
• Order: Caprimulgiformes – Nightjars, Potoos, Swifts and Hummingbirds

About this Species

The Long-billed Hermit (Phaethornis longirostris) is a species of hummingbird found in Belize and throughout Central and South America. These birds are known for their long, curved bills, which they use to sip nectar from flowers. They are also important pollinators for many plant species in their range.

In Belize, Long-billed Hermits are found in a variety of habitats, including lowland forests, riparian zones, and gardens. They typically build their small, cup-shaped nests in the forks of tree branches, using materials such as spider webs, lichens, and mosses. The female will lay two white eggs, which she incubates for about two weeks before they hatch.

Long-billed Hermits are solitary birds, and males are known for their territorial behavior. They will defend their feeding and nesting areas against other males and even larger birds such as toucans and woodpeckers. Despite their aggressive nature, Long-billed Hermits are a beloved sight for many birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts in Belize.

>> Next Post on Friday, 3/31/2023 – Amazon Kingfisher

Previous posts from Beautiful Birds of Belize Blog

• White Ibis
• Limpkin
• Anhinga
• Scaly-breasted Hummingbird
• Gray-breasted Martin