Pale-bellied Hermit
Common name: Pale-bellied Hermit
Scientific name: Phaethornis anthophilus
Clades: Phaethornithinae - Hermits
A discreet yet widespread species of Central America, the Pale-bellied Hermit ranges from eastern Honduras through Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, and into northwestern Colombia. It inhabits lowland and foothill forests, often near rivers and forest edges. Measuring 10.5 to 12 cm (4.1 to 4.7 in) and weighing approximately 4 to 5.5 grams (0.14 to 0.19 oz), this species is recognized by its muted tones and long decurved bill.
Male Description:
The male displays bronzy-olive upperparts with a pale grayish-white belly, from which the species gets its name. His face features the classic hermit pattern—a pale supercilium (eyebrow stripe) and dark cheek stripe. His tail is rounded with white-tipped outer feathers, and his long, decurved black bill is ideal for accessing deep tubular flowers in the understory.
Female Description:
Females resemble males but tend to have slightly shorter tails and longer bills. Their underparts are often more buff-toned or faintly washed with brown, and throat streaking may be present. They maintain the same overall structure and cryptic coloration suited to dense vegetation.
Habitat & Behavior:
Preferring humid lowland forest, forest edges, and second-growth, the Pale-bellied Hermit is often found along streams or in tall thickets. Like other hermits, it follows traplining behavior—visiting a circuit of specific flowers instead of defending a feeding territory. It also catches small arthropods in mid-air or by gleaning from leaves.
2 subspecies:
P a. hyalinus
Distribution Pearl Is, off Pacific coast of Panama.P. a. anthophilus
C Panama to Colombia (Magdalena Valley and E of Andes) and W and N Venezuela.