Hummingbirds are some of the most fascinating birds in the world. Their ability to hover mid-air and fly backwards sets them apart from other birds. But where are the best places in the world to see these aerial acrobats? Here we look at the countries that are home to the most species of hummingbirds.
Which countries have the most hummingbird species?
The countries with the highest number of hummingbird species are:
| Country | Number of species |
| Colombia | 164 |
| Ecuador | 132 |
| Peru | 120 |
| Brazil | 105 |
| Mexico | 97 |
As you can see, Colombia has by far the most hummingbird species at 164. South American countries dominate the top spots, with Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Brazil making up the top four. Mexico is the only country outside of South America in the top five.
Why does Colombia have so many hummingbird species?
There are a few key reasons why Colombia is the world leader in hummingbird species:
Ideal geography
Colombia has an ideal geography for hummingbirds. It sits at the crossroads between Central and South America and has coastlines on both the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea. This allows many species to migrate through or settle in Colombia.
Lush ecosystems
Colombia contains lush rainforests, highland cloud forests, tropical dry forests, and mountainous regions. This diversity of ecosystems provides suitable habitat for many hummingbird species with different requirements.
Strategic location
Sitting at the northern tip of South America puts Colombia in the path of hummingbirds migrating north and south between Central America and other parts of South America. This strategic location exposes Colombia to more vagrant hummingbird species.
Ongoing research
Colombia has a strong research presence studying its diverse hummingbird populations. This ongoing research continues to uncover new hummingbird species and distributions in Colombia.
What are some rare hummingbirds found in Colombia?
Some of the rarest and unique hummingbirds found in Colombia include:
Colorful Puffleg
This striking hummingbird has bright yellow and orange plumes under its legs. It is critically endangered and has an estimated population of only 250-1000.
Indigo-capped Hummingbird
Distinguished by its dark indigo-blue cap, this hummingbird is found only in a small region of southwest Colombia. Fewer than 1000 are estimated to exist.
Gorgeted Puffleg
With its white leg puffs and brightly colored throat, the Gorgeted Puffleg is confined to a small range in the Colombian Andes. It is critically endangered with under 1000 individuals left.
Santa Marta Blossomcrown
This dazzling green hummingbird with a purple crown is endemic to a small area in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains. It is critically endangered and declining.
What is the national bird of Colombia?
The national bird of Colombia is the Andean condor. This iconic South American bird is a massive vulture with a huge 3 meter wingspan. While not a hummingbird, the Andean condor represents Colombia well as both a national symbol and reflection of its biodiversity.
When do hummingbirds migrate through Colombia?
Different hummingbird species migrate through Colombia at different times as they move between Central America and other parts of South America. Here is an overview of the hummingbird migration seasons in Colombia:
Spring migration (March – May)
Early spring brings the first northbound migrants like the Rufous Hummingbird and Violet-crowned Woodnymph.
Fall migration (July – September)
In the late summer and fall, southbound migrant hummingbirds pass through Colombia including the Ruby-throated Hummingbird and Rufous Hummingbird.
Winter Residents (October – February)
Some hummingbirds such as the Sapphire-spangled Emerald spend the winter months in Colombia before migrating north again in spring.
What are the best places to see hummingbirds in Colombia?
Top destinations to observe hummingbirds in Colombia include:
| Santa Marta | A hotspot along the Caribbean coast known for endemics like the Santa Marta Blossomcrown. |
| Bogota | Colombia’s capital sits at a high elevation and attracts unique hummingbirds like the Indigo-capped Hummingbird. |
| Otun Quimbaya Reserve | A prime hummingbird reserve in the Andes protecting species like the endangered Munchique Wood-Wren. |
| Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta | The highest coastal mountain on Earth, with range-restricted hummingbirds found nowhere else. |
| Los Nevados National Park | Volcanic peaks and valleys filled with flowers, home to Marvelous Spatuletails and other high-elevation hummers. |
Conclusion
With 164 species recorded, Colombia is the undisputed leader in hummingbird diversity worldwide. Its combination of ideal location, varied ecosystems, active research, and growing ecotourism makes it a mecca for these energetic birds. While hummingbirds abound across the country, top spots include Santa Marta, Bogota, Otun Quimbaya, the Sierra Nevada mountains, and Los Nevados National Park. As Colombia continues conservation efforts, more hummingbirds and bird enthusiasts will flock to its forests and gardens to appreciate these flying jewels.
