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.
Green-crowned Brilliant
Scientific name: Heliodoxa jacula
IUCN Status: Least Concern
Family: TROCHILIDAE
Group: Birds
Shyness: Suspicious
Safe distance: 5 m
Breeding season / Courtship: N/A
Gestation: N/A
Births: N/A
Habitat:
Humid forests, forest edges, gardens
Description:
The Green-crowned Brilliant, scientifically known as Heliodoxa jacula, is a medium-sized hummingbird found in the humid forests of Central America, from Costa Rica to Panama. Measuring about 11 to 12 cm, this bird is notable for its striking metallic green plumage and emerald crown. Males have a distinctive blue-violet throat, while females feature a white throat speckled with green. Their relatively short, slightly curved beak is well-suited for nectar feeding. These birds are often seen hovering near flowers, using their agility to access nectar while playing a vital role in pollination.
Recommended lens:
>=400mm
Photography tips:
To photograph the Green-crowned Brilliant, it is advisable to use a 400mm lens or longer to capture precise details without disturbing the bird. Look for areas where flowers are abundant, as these birds are often present there. Be patient and wait for them to approach the flowers to feed. Use a tripod to stabilize your camera and prefer a fast shutter speed to freeze the rapid movement of their wings.
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