White-bellied Mountain-gem
White-bellied Mountain-gem (Lampornis hemileucus)
Name Origin: The genus name Lampornis comes from the Greek lampos, meaning "bright" or "shining," and ornis, meaning "bird." The species name hemileucus is derived from the Greek hemi- (half) and leukos (white), referring to the bird’s partially white belly.
Quick Facts
Length: 10–11.5 cm (3.9–4.5 in)
⚖️ Weight: ~5.5 g (0.19 oz)
🌎 Range: Costa Rica and western Panama
🛍️ Elevation: 900–2,500 m (2,950–8,200 ft)
🌺 Diet: Nectar and small arthropods
🏡 Habitat: Humid montane forests, forest edges, and shaded plantations
🧬 Clade: Lampornithini “Mountain-gems”
📊 Status: Least Concern (IUCN 2024)
Subspecies & Distribution
No recognized subspecies. The species is monotypic and distributed from the Cordillera de Tilarán and Cordillera Central in Costa Rica into western Panama (Chiriquí).
Species Overview
The White-bellied Mountain-gem is a striking highland hummingbird known for its vibrant colors and bold contrasts. Occupying humid montane regions of Central America, it is typically found in cloud forests and along densely vegetated slopes. Though it shares its range with other Lampornis species, its white underparts and emerald hues make it easily distinguishable.
Male Description
The male has a glittering emerald green crown and upperparts, a gleaming white belly, and a prominent violet-blue throat. The flanks are washed with green, and the tail is mostly dark with some pale edges. The straight black bill completes its sharp, high-contrast appearance.
Female Description
Females are similarly structured but lack the bold throat coloration. Instead, they show a pale grayish throat and breast, with white underparts and green-tinged flanks. A prominent white postocular stripe adds contrast to the otherwise subtle face pattern.
Habitat & Behavior
Preferring dense cloud forests, this species is usually seen along forest edges and within second growth. White-bellied Mountain-gems often visit feeders and flowering shrubs, feeding primarily on nectar but also capturing small insects midair. Males defend flowering territories and sing from exposed perches using short, buzzy vocalizations.
Conservation Note
Listed as Least Concern, the White-bellied Mountain-gem remains locally common within its montane range. It benefits from protected areas and can adapt to disturbed habitats, but long-term threats such as deforestation and climate change could impact montane specialists like this species in the future.
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