Ruby-topaz Hummingbird
Ruby-topaz Hummingbird (Chrysolampis mosquitus)
Name Origin:
The genus Chrysolampis comes from Greek chrysos meaning “gold” and lampas meaning “torch,” referring to the bird’s brilliant plumage. The species name mosquitus likely references an early locality or is derived from the Spanish mosquito, a nod to its small size and quick movements.
Quick Facts
🪶 Length: 8–9.5 cm (3.1–3.7 in)
⚖️ Weight: ~3.0–4.5 g (0.11–0.16 oz)
🌎 Range: Northern South America and southern Caribbean, from Colombia and Venezuela to Brazil, the Guianas, Trinidad, and Grenada
🧭 Elevation: Lowlands to 1,000 m
🌸 Diet: Nectar and small arthropods
🏡 Habitat: Dry scrub, savanna, open woodland, gardens, and forest edge
🧬 Clade: Polytminae (a.k.a. “mangoes”)
📊 Status: Least Concern (IUCN 2024)
Subspecies & Distribution
Monotypic — no subspecies recognized.
Species Overview
The Ruby-topaz Hummingbird is an electric bolt of color, especially the adult male, whose shimmering red crown and fiery golden throat blaze in direct sunlight. Widespread in dry, open habitats, it often perches conspicuously on bare branches and aggressively defends feeding territories. Though bold in appearance, it can vanish quickly into surrounding brush with sharp, agile flight.
Male Description:
Brilliant ruby-red crown and forehead, golden-orange gorget and breast, bronzy green back, and dark wings. Tail is reddish with a dark terminal band. Plumage looks dull in poor light but explodes with iridescence in sun.
Female Description:
Bronzy green above, grayish-white below with cinnamon flanks. Tail reddish with a black band near the tip and buffy tips. Lacks the fiery iridescence of the male.
Habitat & Behavior:
Favors dry lowland environments such as scrub, savanna, and forest edges, often in coastal zones. Visits flowering trees, shrubs, and gardens. Males are aggressive, often chasing other hummingbirds away from nectar sources. Forages with quick hovering and frequent perching. Calls are sharp, high-pitched chips or buzzes.
Conservation Note:
The species is common and adaptable across much of its range, often benefiting from human-modified habitats with flowering plants. While local declines may occur due to habitat conversion, overall population levels remain stable. No major conservation concerns at present.
taken in Brazil
taken in Colombia
