Beautiful Birds of Belize Blog – Post #69
Belize is home to over 500 species of birds, making it a premier birding destination. Its rich avian diversity, coupled with its lush landscapes and vibrant culture, make it a must-visit destination for birders and nature enthusiasts alike. Using my personal photographs in a blog post format, viewers will learn about the natural history and conservation status of these interesting birds in this beautiful country.
A Reflections of the Natural World Blog Post Series by Jim Gain
WHAT’S IN A NAME
Scaly-breasted Hummingbird – Phaeochroa cuvierii
Gr. phaios dusky, brown; khroa, khroas colour; Dagobert Baron Cuvier (1769-1832) French anatomist,
About this Species
The Scaly-breasted Hummingbird, native to Central and South America, is a charming and distinctive species among hummingbirds. It is mostly bronzy green with a grayish buff belly. The feathers of the underparts have buffy edges that give a scaly appearance. The tail is mostly bronzy, with white tips on the outer two or three pairs of feathers
The Scaly-breasted Hummingbird is a captivating species with a rich natural history. These hummingbirds primarily inhabit the subtropical and tropical regions of Central and South America, including countries like Belize, Costa Rica, and Panama. They are often found in diverse forested habitats, including lowland rainforests and foothill forests.
One interesting fact about the Scaly-breasted Hummingbird is its unique courtship behavior. During courtship displays, males perform a remarkable aerial dance in front of females, showcasing their vibrant plumage and agility. This display involves impressive maneuvers, such as rapid dives and steep climbs, all while producing high-pitched whistles with their wing feathers. These captivating performances are not only a demonstration of the male’s physical prowess but also serve to attract potential mates.
Previous posts from Beautiful Birds of Belize Blog
Reflections of the Natural World 