The national bird of Jamaica is the Red-billed Streamertail hummingbird, also known as the doctor bird or scissor-tail hummingbird. This colorful, endemic species was designated the official national bird of Jamaica in 1962.
Quick Facts About the Red-Billed Streamertail
Here are some quick facts about Jamaica’s national bird:
- Scientific name: Trochilus polytmus
- Family: Trochilidae (hummingbirds)
- Endemic to Jamaica
- One of two species in the Trochilus genus found only in Jamaica
- Males have bright, iridescent emerald green feathers on the head and throat, with a red bill and elongated tail streamers
- Females are less vividly colored, with a dark bill and rounded tail
- Average length is 6.3 inches (16 cm)
- Primarily nectivorous, feeding on nectar from flowers
- Breeds year-round, with peak breeding February to June
- Nests are small cups built in forks of twigs
- Clutch size is usually two eggs
- Threatened by habitat loss, climate change, pollution, and predation
Physical Description
The Red-billed Streamertail is a fairly small hummingbird, but is one of the largest species found in Jamaica. Males measure around 6.3 inches (16 cm) in total length, while females average slightly smaller at 5.5 inches (14 cm).
As their name suggests, males have exceptionally long, ribbon-like outer tail feathers that can measure up to 5 inches (12 cm) in length. These elongated tail streamers give the bird its distinctive scissor-tailed silhouette in flight. The male’s emerald green crown and gorget (throat) glitter brightly in the sunlight. The lower belly is grayish white, while the back and wings are mostly greenish brown.
Females lack the long tail streamers and bright plumage of the males. They have shorter, rounded tails and their plumage is generally darker green above and lighter gray below. The tail may show faint barring. Immature birds resemble adult females.
Distinctive Red Bill
One unique feature that both sexes share is the long, slender, downward-curving red bill. This is used to feed on nectar from flowers, a hallmark of hummingbird species. The bill averages around 0.9 inches (2.3 cm) in length.
Vocalizations
The vocalizations of the Red-billed Streamertail consist of fairly simple, high-pitched squeaking and twittering notes. Males may make a buzzing sound during courtship displays. Their wings also produce a humming sound in flight, as is typical of all hummingbirds.
Range and Habitat
The Red-billed Streamertail is endemic to the island of Jamaica in the Caribbean. Its geographic range is restricted solely to this island nation. Within Jamaica, it is found across the country in both wet and dry forests, thickets, plantations, and gardens.
This species occurs at elevations up to around 6,500 feet (2,000 m). It is most abundant in the Blue Mountains and John Crow Mountains of eastern Jamaica. The Streamertail has adapted well to human settlement and is a common visitor to parks and gardens, especially those with suitable nectar flowers.
Population and Conservation Status
The Red-billed Streamertail has a fairly large global population estimated at 5,000 to 50,000 individuals. However, the population is suspected to be in decline due to habitat destruction and the impacts of climate change. This has led the IUCN Red List to classify the Streamertail as Near Threatened.
Major threats to the species include:
- Habitat loss from deforestation, agriculture, and development
- Climate change leading to reduced availability of nectar sources
- Pollution and pesticide use
- Competition and predation from invasive species
To protect Jamaica’s iconic national bird, conservation efforts are aimed at preserving humid forest habitats, planting native nectar sources, public education, and reducing pesticide use. Backyard gardens also provide sanctuaries for the Streamertail in developed areas.
Behavior and Ecology
The Red-billed Streamertail is a swift, acrobatic flyer and skilled hoverer like all hummingbirds. It can fly forwards, backwards, and laterally, as well as hovering in place by rapidly beating its wings up to 70 times per second. This maneuverability allows it to adeptly visit flowers for nectar.
Males are highly territorial and use their streamer tails in aerial displays. They perform complex courtship rituals to attract potential mates. Besides feeding on flower nectar, they will also hawk flying insects on occasion for extra protein.
Breeding
Breeding activities occur year-round, reaching a peak between February and June. Courtship displays involve the male hovering in front of the female and flying in repeated U-shaped or figure-8 patterns. If receptive, the female will allow the male to approach and mate with her.
The female Streamertail builds a small, cup-shaped nest out of plant fibers like petals, spiders’ webs, and lichens. It is attached to a fork in a twig or vine, 5 to 20 feet above ground. The female lays two tiny white eggs and incubates them alone for 15 to 17 days until hatching.
The altricial nestlings are fed regurgitated nectar and insects by the female. They fledge within 18 to 25 days after hatching. Several broods may be raised consecutively in a single breeding season.
Significance as Jamaica’s National Bird
The Red-billed Streamertail was officially designated as the national bird of Jamaica by the National Birds Act of 1962. It was selected for its endemic status, attractiveness, and cultural popularity on the island.
As Jamaica’s national symbol, the Streamertail represents the pride, freedom, and natural heritage of the Jamaican people. It can be found on the country’s stamps, coins, and coat of arms. The hummingbird motif also appears in Jamaican art, music, and handicrafts.
The species has significance in Jamaican folklore as well. One legend claims the hummingbird flies so swiftly in order to avoid being captured by snakes. Its red bill is said to come from eating forbidden fruit against the wishes of God.
Cultural Importance
The Red-billed Streamertail enjoys an exalted status among Jamaica’s inhabitants. Its reputation as a resilient survivor matches the resourcefulness of Jamaicans. And its ability to hover and fly in any direction mirrors the freedom and versatility of the Jamaican spirit.
Jamaicans take pride in their unique island endemic and its spectacular tail streamers. The hummingbird’s agility and industriousness reflect desired national virtues. And its presence in gardens and backyards serves as a reminder of the island’s natural heritage even in urban areas.
Other Symbols of Jamaica
In addition to the Red-billed Streamertail as the national bird, Jamaica has designated several other official national symbols that represent the country and its culture:
National Flower – Lignum Vitae
The blue flower of the lignum vitae tree was adopted as Jamaica’s national flower in 1977. It blooms year-round and symbolizes vitality and strength.
National Tree – Blue Mahoe
The blue mahoe tree was selected as the national tree of Jamaica in 1993 due to its usefulness. Its wood is important for lumber and its bark has medicinal value.
National Fruit – Ackee
Jamaica’s national fruit is the ackee, whose origins trace back to West Africa. The ackee fruit appears on the country’s coat of arms and the ackee tree symbolizes motivation and initiative.
National motto: “Out of Many, One People”
Jamaica’s national motto reflects the diverse origins and ethnicities of its population coming together as one united people. It promotes unity, cooperation, and inclusion.
Symbol | Name | Year Selected |
---|---|---|
National Bird | Red-billed Streamertail | 1962 |
National Flower | Lignum Vitae | 1977 |
National Tree | Blue Mahoe | 1993 |
National Fruit | Ackee | N/A |
National Motto | “Out of Many, One People” | N/A |
Threats Facing the Red-Billed Streamertail
Although the Red-billed Streamertail remains fairly widespread and common, there are a number of threats that have led to population declines and could potentially impact the species further in the future if not addressed. These threats include:
Habitat Loss
Destruction of forests and conversion of land for agriculture, housing, and other development has reduced suitable habitat for the Streamertail. Fragmentation of remaining habitat also isolates populations.
Climate Change
Changes to temperature and precipitation patterns in Jamaica due to climate change may affect flowering cycles and nectar availability for the Streamertail.
Pollution
Pollution from agricultural chemicals, industry, and urban areas can contaminate the hummingbird’s habitat and food sources.
Invasive Species
Introduced predators like rats and feral cats prey on Streamertail nests. Introduced bees may compete for limited nectar resources as well.
Natural Disasters
Severe hurricanes have damaged forest habitats and flowering plants relied on by the Streamertail in Jamaica.
Conservation Efforts and Protection Status
Various conservation actions are underway to protect the endemic Red-billed Streamertail and its diminishing forest habitat in Jamaica, including:
- Legally protected from hunting, capturing, or egg collecting under Jamaica’s Wildlife Protection Act
- Ongoing monitoring of population trends across its range
- Habitat preservation in protected areas like national parks and forest reserves
- Reforestation initiatives to restore native vegetation
- Creation of wildlife corridors between isolated habitat patches
- Control and management of invasive predators in key reserves
- Public education programs to build support for conservation
- Bird feeders, pollinator gardens, and native plantings in backyards and communities
- Research into impacts of climate change and approaches to support adaptation
International conservation groups like the IUCN, Audubon Society, and BirdLife International all list the Red-billed Streamertail as a threatened or declining species in need of continued monitoring and protection efforts.
Fun Facts About the Red-Billed Streamertail
Beyond being the breathtaking national symbol of Jamaica, the Red-billed Streamertail is an amazing and unique bird with some surprising traits and abilities:
- Has the second longest tail streamers relative to body size of any hummingbird species in the world
- Its heart rate can reach up to 1,260 beats per minute while flying or feeding
- Streams of air flowing over the tail feathers make a humming or buzzing sound in flight
- Shares the Trochilus genus name with one other Jamaican endemic, the Black-billed Streamertail
- Adapted to hover and feed while flying backwards or upside down
- Male streamertails have aerial dogfights with intruders in their breeding territories
- Nest size is only about 1 inch (2.5 cm) across and 1 inch deep
- Females can lay eggs for 3 different clutches in a single breeding season
- The species is believed to be over 1 million years old
- Has specialized tongue that extends to sip nectar while hovering
- Visits up to 1,000 flowers per day for nectar and pollen
From its sword-like tail feathers to its whirring wings and crimson bill, the Red-billed Streamertail is perfectly equipped for its role as Jamaica’s high-speed, acrobatic avian ambassador!
Conclusion
The dazzling Red-billed Streamertail hummingbird is a jewel of Jamaica’s diverse avifauna and a deserving national symbol of the island. The male’s iridescent emerald plumage and elongated streamer tails make this endemic species one of the most brilliant and unique hummingbirds in the world. Beyond its striking beauty, the adaptable Red-billed Streamertail represents traits like freedom, resilience, and initiative that Jamaicans identify with. Serious threats to its habitat will require ongoing conservation efforts however if this beloved national bird is to continue thriving as an iconic part of Jamaica’s natural heritage.