Magenta-throated Woodstar
Magenta-throated Woodstar (Philodice bryantae)
Name Origin:
The genus Philodice is derived from Greek mythology, referencing a daughter of Leucippus, often associated with beauty. The species name bryantae honors Annie Bryant, a collector and contributor to early ornithological work in Central America.
Quick Facts
🪶 Length: 7–8 cm
⚖️ Weight: 2.5–3.0 g
🌎 Range: Highlands of Costa Rica and western Panama
🧭 Elevation: 900–2,500 m
🌸 Diet: Nectar from tubular flowers, plus small insects
🏡 Habitat: Humid montane forest, clearings, second growth, and gardens
🧬 Clade: Mellisugini (a.k.a. “bees”)
📊 Status: Least Concern (IUCN 2024)
Subspecies & Distribution
Monotypic — no subspecies recognized.
Species Overview
The Magenta-throated Woodstar is a tiny, fast-moving hummingbird endemic to the highlands of Costa Rica and western Panama. Males are brilliantly iridescent with a glowing magenta throat, dark green back, and short forked tail. It often hovers in place while feeding and gives the impression of a bumblebee due to its rapid wingbeats and size. Unlike many hummingbirds, its tail remains closed in flight.
Male Description:
Bright magenta throat, metallic green upperparts, white band across lower breast, and short, deeply forked black tail. The bill is straight and black.
Female Description:
Buffy underparts, green upperparts, pale throat, and a white band below the chest. Tail is shorter and less forked than the male’s, with buff-tipped feathers.
Habitat & Behavior:
Prefers edges of humid montane forest, second growth, flowering shrubs, and gardens, usually between 900 and 2,500 meters. Feeds on nectar from low and mid-level flowers and occasionally takes insects. Often follows a trap-lining route but may defend flower patches when abundant. Flight is swift and bee-like.
Conservation Note:
Though restricted in range, the Magenta-throated Woodstar is considered stable. It adapts well to habitat edges and gardens, provided suitable flowers are present. Continued forest protection in the Talamanca highlands is essential for long-term population security.
