Red-billed Emerald
Common name: Red-billed Emerald
Scientific name: Chlorostilbon gibsoni
Clades: Trochilini - Emeralds
The Red-billed Emerald is a species of hummingbird found in Colombia and Venezuela. This small bird, measuring about 9 cm in length and weighing around 3.5 grams, has a vibrant emerald green plumage with a glittering red bill, from which it gets its name. The male Red-billed Emerald is known for its striking colors, with a shimmering green throat and crown complemented by a bright blue tail.
These hummingbirds inhabit subtropical or tropical moist montane forests and adjacent secondary growth and clearings. They are commonly seen feeding on nectar from various flowers, using their specialized long, slender bills to reach deep into blossoms. In addition to nectar, they feed on insects and spiders, which they catch on the wing or by gleaning from leaves.
The Red-billed Emerald is known for its elaborate courtship displays, often involving aerial acrobatics and vocalizations to attract a mate. The female is responsible for building the cup-shaped nest using plant fibers, spider silk, and other materials, typically placed on a low, horizontal branch.
Through Anthony Lujan's dedicated photographic journey, capturing the beauty of the Red-billed Emerald and other hummingbird species, we can raise awareness about the importance of protecting these delicate creatures and the environments they depend on.
3 subspecies
C. g. gibsoni
Distribution: upper Magdalena Valley, in C Colombia.C. g. chrysogaster
Distribution: N Colombia from E Córdoba E to Cesar and Norte de Santander.C. g. nitens
Distribution: extreme N Colombia (Guajira Peninsula) and NW Venezuela (W and N of Andes).