How I Photographed the Vervain Hummingbird
Sony A1, Sony 600mm
f/8, 1/320, ISO 5000
The Vervain Hummingbird (Mellisuga minima), once crowned the smallest bird in the world, now holds the title of the second smallest. Though it may not boast the iridescent plumage that draws the world's attention like its counterpart, the Bee Hummingbird, the Vervain Hummingbird is a tiny marvel in its own right. My journey to the Dominican Republic brought me face-to-face with this delicate bird, and the experience was nothing short of extraordinary.
A Dual Mission in the Dominican Republic
My trip to the Dominican Republic had a dual purpose. I was there to apply for a Venezuelan visa so I could photograph the elusive White-bearded Helmetcrest, among other hummingbirds. But while in the Dominican Republic, I knew I had to seize the opportunity to photograph the island's three hummingbird species, two of which are endemic to Hispaniola. This was a chance I couldn't miss.
Three hummingbird to photograph on Hispaniola:
Hispaniolan Emerald Riccordia swainsonii
Hispaniolan Mango Anthracothorax dominicus
Vervain Hummingbird Mellisuga minima
Finding the Right Guide
To help me in my quest, I sought out a local guide based on a credible referral. Our initial communications were smooth, but I quickly realized he relied heavily on translation tools. He spoke only Spanish, and I didn’t. This added an unexpected layer of complexity to our trip, but I was eager to see what lay ahead. I soon discovered that my guide was knowledgeable and a respected biologist well-known across the island.
The Search Begins
Our adventure kicked off in a city park, where my guide believed we’d have a good chance of spotting the Vervain Hummingbird. We spent hours walking through the park, scanning the vibrant flowers and trees that would attract hummingbirds. But with each passing hour and no sight of our target, my optimism began to wane.
Just as I started to doubt our luck, we rounded a corner and heard the distinctive buzz of the Vervain Hummingbird. My guide pointed excitedly toward a tree that was feeding on. It was six feet up a hill, with the tree itself standing about eleven feet tall. My heart raced—I knew this could be the moment I had been waiting for.
The Challenge of Capturing the Tiny Vervain
At that moment, I faced a dilemma. My backpack was loaded with two heavy lenses: the Sony 200-600mm and the Sony 600mm. I initially tried photographing from the walkway, but the angle and background were all wrong. Determined to get the perfect shot, I tackled the steep hill, balancing on the cliff's edge to get as close to eye level as possible. Butt shots were not an option. With my Sony A1 and 200-600mm lens strapped to my tripod, I was ready.
After about 15 minutes of patient waiting, the Vervain Hummingbird returned to feed on the tree. The challenge wasn’t over, though. My guide, trying his best to communicate, would point and say something I couldn’t quite grasp. I would respond with hand signals aquí, pointing up or aquí pointing down, but he often left shrugging his shoulders in confusion. In 95-degree heat, balancing on the edge of a hill and searching for a tiny hummingbird, my frustration began to build.
Sony A1, Sony 200-600mm
f/8, 1/1250, ISO 1600
The Delight of the Vervain Hummingbird
Despite the challenges, the Vervain Hummingbird was an absolute delight to photograph. While its colors might seem plain at first glance, closer inspection revealed sparkling green feathers on the male’s head and chest that shimmered in the sunlight. One inquisitive male perched right in front of me, fanning out his tail and stretching as if to show off for the camera.
Sony A1, Sony 200-600mm
f/8, 1/1600, ISO 2000
Sony A1, Sony 200-600mm
f/8, 1/1600, ISO 2000
One of the Vervain Hummingbird's most fascinating behaviors is how they move when perched. They perform a charming sideways dance, almost as if they’re grooving in their tiny seats. Watching this little bird sway back and forth brought a smile to my face and made the effort all the more worthwhile.
A Lesson in Patience
My encounter with the Vervain Hummingbird was brief, but it left a lasting impression. Despite the frustrations of language barriers and the physical challenges of the shoot, I felt truly blessed to have witnessed the second-smallest bird in the world in its natural habitat. Though we struggled to communicate at times, my guide was an invaluable part of the experience. He reminded me that with patience, peace, and respect, nature’s miracles will unfold before us.
Sony A1, Sony 200-600mm
f/8, 1/1000, ISO 1600
Wrapping Up an Unforgettable Journey
Reflecting on this adventure, I realize that the Vervain Hummingbird, with its unassuming appearance and delightful personality, taught me more than photography. It taught me the value of perseverance and embracing the unexpected.
If you ever find yourself around Jamaica or the Dominican Republic, watch for this tiny wonder. It may capture your heart just as it did mine.
Also visit the species page on my website to learn more!
Please note: The content provided here reflects Anthony’s personal experience as a dedicated photographer and details the specific methods he has utilized to successfully photograph this particular hummingbird species. It is important to understand that many complex factors are at play in the world of photography, and therefore not everyone may have the same experiences or outcomes as Anthony. Individual circumstances, varying levels of expertise, camera gear, and distinct approaches can all significantly influence the final results.