White-whiskered Hermit

White-whiskered Hermit (Phaethornis yaruqui)

Name Origin:
The genus Phaethornis comes from Greek Phaethon (mythological sun god) and ornis (“bird”), referring to its sun-loving habits. The species name yaruqui is taken from Yaruquí, Ecuador, near where the species was first described.

Quick Facts

🯦 Length: 12.5–14 cm (4.9–5.5 in)
⚖️ Weight: ~3.5–5 g (0.12–0.18 oz)
🌎 Range: Western Colombia and northwestern Ecuador
🛍️ Elevation: 100–1,000 m (330–3,280 ft)
🌺 Diet: Nectar and small arthropods
🏡 Habitat: Humid lowland and foothill rainforest, forest edges, and second growth
🧬 Clade: Phaethornithinae “Hermits”
📊 Status: Least Concern (IUCN 2024)

Subspecies & Distribution

The White-whiskered Hermit is monotypic; no recognized subspecies.

Species Overview

The White-whiskered Hermit is a slender, mid-sized hummingbird of the Chocó region’s humid forests. Noted for its distinct white facial stripe (“whisker”) and long decurved bill, this species prefers deep shade near streams and clearings, where it feeds on a range of flowers and small insects.

Male Description:
Males are olive-bronze above with grayish underparts, a prominent white malar stripe, and blackish facial mask. The long, slightly decurved bill and white-tipped tail are diagnostic.

Female Description:
Females are similar but have a slightly longer bill and paler underparts. The white facial stripe and tail pattern remain distinctive.

Habitat & Behavior:
Primarily inhabits humid forests and dense second growth, especially along streams. Typically forages low, moving quickly between flowers. Males may sing from hidden perches and participate in leks, where several gather to display and compete for females.

Conservation Note:
Although local, the White-whiskered Hermit is considered Least Concern. It persists in both primary and disturbed habitats, but ongoing deforestation could impact populations in some regions if unchecked.

Checkout Anthony’s playlist of this species! Click the top right dropdown to see all the videos.