Little Hermit

Common name: Little Hermit
Scientific name: Phaethornis longuemareus
Clades: Phaethornithinae - Hermits

The Little hermit has a total length of ca. 9 cm. (3½ in) and a weight of 2½-3½ g. (0,08-0,12 oz).

Among the hermits, the Little hermit is one of the tiniest. Note the distinctive curved bill; long, white central tail feathers; and dark brown throat. In coastal areas, it is commonly found in swamps and abandoned plantations, including second-growth forests. Frequently seen flying between widely-spaced food sources in low, direct flight, giving a characteristic plaintive squeak as it forages on nectar. While weaving among understory plants, it is often detected by loud, erratic wing noises, like a large bee. Occasionally pauses to examine people. A male sings from a low perch, slurring high notes with a distinctive pattern. Similar to the Reddish Hermit, the Little Hermit is much less rufous, lacks a black breast band, and is usually restricted to coastal swamps.