Hummingbirds are known for their vibrant, iridescent plumage that shimmers in the light. However, some species do possess mostly black feathers. The black coloration serves an important purpose – camouflage. By blending into the shadows, these stealthy hummers are able to evade predators and sneak up on unsuspecting prey.
Black-chinned Hummingbird
The aptly named black-chinned hummingbird (Archilochus alexandri) is one of the most widespread and common hummingbird species in the western United States. The adult male has a dark, metallic purple throat and crown, with a black face and chin. This distinguishing black “beard” gives the bird its common name. The rest of the body is covered in emerald green feathers on the back and white underneath. Females and juveniles lack the black chin and throat patch, instead displaying light grey feathers in those areas. Still, the dark plumage on the face helps break up the bird’s outline and conceal it in vegetation.
Blue-throated Mountain-gem
Another mostly black hummingbird is the blue-throated mountain-gem (Lampornis clemenciae). Native to the mountains of Mexico and Central America, this high altitude species has adapted its cryptic coloration to blend in with the dark forests and rocky outcrops of its habitat. The male has a deep blue throat patch, bordered below by a prominent black collar or “bib.” The rest of the body is covered in slate gray and black feathers, with some blue spotting on the tail. As in many hummingbirds, the relatively drab female lacks the male’s vivid bib and throat colors.
Violet Sabrewing
The violet sabrewing (Campylopterus hemileucurus) inhabits the tropical forests of South America. A large hummingbird species, the male violet sabrewing has striking violet-blue patches on its tail and wings. However, the majority of its plumage is dark slate gray and black. The black back feathers have fine white tips, giving a frosted appearance. The female plumage is similar but less vibrant, with more dull gray than black.
Wine-throated Hummingbird
In the highlands of Costa Rica and western Panama resides the aptly named wine-throated hummingbird (Atthis ellioti). The male’s throat feathers exhibit a deep burgundy red coloration for which it gets its common name. The rest of the underside is plain white. However, the crown and back side is primarily cloaked in black, with some greenish mottling on the rump. Females replace the dark red throat patch with pale white.
Andean Hillstar
Found in the Andean mountains of South America, the Andean hillstar (Oreotrochilus estella) inhabits rocky slopes and grassland areas. The male has extensive black plumage covering the head, back, wings and tail. Depending on the angle, these feathers can take on a bottle green sheen. The breast is white, providing contrast. Females have similar patterning but are overall browner instead of deep black.
Conclusion
While most hummingbirds sport bright, glittery plumage, a few species have evolved predominantly black feathering. This serves as camouflage, allowing the birds to hide in shaded forests and blend in with dark rock surfaces. Some black-feathered hummers include the black-chinned, blue-throated mountain-gem, violet sabrewing, wine-throated, and Andean hillstar. The black coloration is often limited to the males, while females exhibit more subdued gray, brown, or green hues. So next time you spot a tiny black hummingbird darting through the shadows, it’s likely one of these stealthy species!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do some hummingbirds have black plumage?
Hummingbirds with mostly black plumage have evolved that coloration as camouflage. By blending into the shadows and dark crevices of their habitat, black hummers are able to evade predators and discreetly observe potential prey before striking.
What is the most widespread black hummingbird in North America?
The black-chinned hummingbird is the most widespread and common black hummingbird in North America. Males have a prominent black “beard” along with a dark purple throat, while females lack the black chin patch.
Which black hummingbird lives at the highest altitudes?
The Andean hillstar, found in the Andes Mountains, is the black hummingbird that lives at the highest elevations, sometimes up to 17,000 feet. It inhabits rocky slopes and grasslands.
Where in the world are black hummingbirds found?
Black hummingbirds occur in certain habitats throughout the Americas. Some examples include:
- Black-chinned hummingbird – western North America
- Blue-throated mountain-gem – Mexico and Central America
- Violet sabrewing – South America
- Wine-throated hummingbird – Costa Rica and Panama
- Andean hillstar – Andes Mountains of South America
Why do the females of these species lack the black plumage?
In many hummingbird species, the brightly colored male plumage serves to attract females during courtship. Since the female does not need to display to attract a mate, she can retain more cryptic, camouflaged plumage that provides protection while nesting.
Key Facts and Statistics
| Hummingbird Species | Region | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Black-chinned hummingbird | Western North America | Males have black chin “beard” and throat |
| Blue-throated mountain-gem | Mexico, Central America | Prominent black bib on male |
| Violet sabrewing | South America | Dark slate gray and black plumage |
| Wine-throated hummingbird | Costa Rica, Panama | Black crown and back |
| Andean hillstar | Andes Mountains | Extensive black head, back, wings |
- At least 5 species of hummingbirds across the Americas exhibit primarily black plumage
- Black coloration provides camouflage advantage in shadowy or dark environments
- Display coloring is often limited to males, while females retain more cryptic plumage
- These black hummers inhabit forest, mountain, and high altitude grassland habitats
Conclusion
While bright, glittering plumage may be a hallmark of hummingbirds, some exceptional species sport mostly black feathers. Through evolution, these hummingbirds have developed dark pigmentation that allows them to disappear into shaded forests and rocky hillsides. By mimicking their environment, black hummers like the Andean hillstar and violet sabrewing avoid predation and go undetected when approaching flowers or stalking small insect prey. So a flashy palette isn’t the only option for a successful hummingbird – sometimes subtle and mysterious black is the perfect adaptation.
