Bird Guide

White-chinned Sapphire

Chlorestes cyanus

Least Concern

About the White-chinned Sapphire

The White-chinned sapphire is a small species of hummingbird in the family Trochilidae. It is found in northern and eastern South America. It inhabits a variety of environments, including lowland tropical forests, woodland edges, and clearings with scattered trees. This species is known for its distinctive steel-blue tail and sexual dimorphism, with males displaying a violet-blue head and throat and a coral-red bill, while females have subdued green plumage. The White-chinned sapphire feeds primarily on nectar from flowering plants but also consumes small arthropods such as insects and spiders. It is non-migratory species and occurs as a year round resident throughout much of its range.

Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.

ID tip

The white-chinned Sapphire is a small hummingbird measuring 8–9 centimetres (3.1–3.5 in) in length and weighing approximately 2.8–3.5 grams (0.099–0.123 oz).The species exhibits marked sexual dimorphism. Adult males are readily identified by their bright coral-red bill with a dark tip, brilliant violet-blue head and throat, and small white chin patch, which may not always be conspicuous. The upper parts are golden green, becoming more copper toward the rump. The upper tail-coverts range from deep copper to purple tones. and the tail is steel blue to blue black.

Text from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.

Where the White-chinned Sapphire lives

Regular range

When to see the White-chinned Sapphire

Peak activity in October · a resident species across most of its range

Easily confused with

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