Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat
Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.
Coppery-headed Emerald
Scientific name: Elvira cupreiceps
IUCN Status: Near Threatened
Family: TROCHILIDAE
Group: Birds
Shyness: Shy
Safe distance: 10 m
Breeding season / Courtship: 01.03-15.04
Gestation: 16 à 19 jours
Births: 01.04-01.05
Habitat:
Humid montane forests, wooded edges, flower gardens
Description:
The Coppery-headed Emerald is a small hummingbird endemic to Costa Rica, measuring about 8 cm. The male is notable for his metallic coppery crown, bright green throat, and white underparts. The female is duller in color, with a bronzy head and pale throat. It inhabits humid mid-elevation forests, woodland edges, and flower-rich gardens. This hummingbird feeds on nectar from various flowers and catches small insects. It is threatened by deforestation, as its range is very restricted.
Recommended lens:
>=300 mm
Photography tips:
Use a telephoto lens with fast focus to capture the coppery-headed emerald in flight near flowers. Morning light best reveals the metallic shine of its plumage. Stay discreet to avoid disrupting its feeding behavior.
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