Trinidad is a beautiful island nation located in the southern Caribbean Sea, just off the northeastern coast of Venezuela. It is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, home to thousands of species of plants and animals. Among this rich variety of wildlife, Trinidad is especially known for its many species of dazzling, colorful hummingbirds.
With over 16 species of hummingbirds identified on the island, it’s easy to see why Trinidad is often referred to as “the land of the hummingbird.” The tiny birds are ubiquitous across the island, constantly buzzing between flowers in search of nectar. Their glittering plumage in shining greens, blues, and reds makes them a treat to observe.
Why does Trinidad have so many hummingbirds?
There are a few key reasons why Trinidad is blessed with such a diversity of hummingbirds:
- Abundant habitat – Trinidad has extensive areas of rainforest, cloud forest, marshland, and savannah. These provide ideal habitat for many hummingbird species.
- Tropical climate – The warm weather and ample rainfall allow year-round flowering plants to thrive, providing a constant nectar source.
- Varied topography – Trinidad has mountains, valleys, plains, and shorelines. This topographic diversity supports many ecological niches for different hummingbirds.
- Position along migration route – Trinidad is located directly in the path of major hummingbird migration routes between North and South America.
With plentiful habitat, food sources, and migration connectivity, it’s no wonder so many hummingbird species either call Trinidad home or pass through the island on their annual journeys.
What are the major species of hummingbirds in Trinidad?
Here are some of the most spectacular and interesting hummingbirds commonly seen on Trinidad:
Ruby Topaz Hummingbird
One of the largest and most dazzling hummingbirds on Trinidad. The male has deep crimson plumage on its head, back, and belly, with a brilliant orange beak. It gets its name from the ruby red and fiery orange colors.
Tufted Coquette
A tiny hummingbird with a distinctive crest of colorful feathers on its head. Males are mostly black with brilliant green on the head and neck. Females are dark green all over. They have a unique courting display, hence their name “Coquette.”
White-necked Jacobin
This handsome hummingbird has iridescent green plumage, sharp tail feathers, and a bright white stripe around its neck. It’s one of the larger species on the island and often visits gardens to feed.
Copper-rumped Hummingbird
As its name suggests, this small hummingbird has glowing copper-colored feathers on its rump and upper tail. The rest of its plumage is mostly green with hints of blue on the wing feathers.
Rufous-breasted Hermit
A stocky hummingbird with rufous (red-orange) plumage on the throat and breast. It has a long, decurved bill adapted for drinking nectar from long tubular flowers.
| Hummingbird Species | Key Identifying Traits |
|---|---|
| Ruby Topaz | Large size, crimson and orange plumage |
| Tufted Coquette | Tiny size, head crest, black and green colors |
| White-necked Jacobin | Bright white neck stripe, iridescent green |
| Copper-rumped | Copper colored rump, small size |
| Rufous-breasted Hermit | Long curved bill, red-orange throat |
When and where are the best places to see hummingbirds in Trinidad?
Here are some top spots and tips for observing hummingbirds when visiting Trinidad:
Asa Wright Nature Centre
This renowned nature lodge located amid mountains in Trinidad’s northern range is a prime place to see up to 15 species of hummingbirds. Its verandah with blooming flowers and feeders draws in hummingbirds throughout the day.
Caroni Swamp
Taking a boat tour in the late afternoon to see scarlet ibises return to roost is a magical experience. Many hummingbirds can also be spotted feeding around the swamp’s flowering trees at this time.
Mount Saint Benedict
Rise early to walk the trails and gardens around this hilltop monastery. Swarms of hummingbirds visit its nectar feeders in the early morning hours.
Trinidad’s East Coast
The beaches, lagoons, and mangroves along Trinidad’s northeast coast host many species. Watch for hummingbirds darting around coastal flowers and bushes, especially around Moruga and Matura.
Hiking in the Rainforest
Trails through Trinidad’s Northern and Central ranges provide the chance to see hummingbirds feeding on wildflowers and buzzing through forest understory. Popular spots include Brasso Seco and the Aripo Savannas.
The best times are early morning and late afternoon when hummingbirds are most active. Planting flowers at your accommodation will also draw them in!
How did hummingbirds become so important to Trinidad’s culture and identity?
For centuries, hummingbirds have enchanted the people of Trinidad with their glittering beauty. Several factors have led hummingbirds to take a central role in Trinidad’s cultural consciousness:
- Presence in indigenous folklore – Legends of native peoples like the Arawak and Caribs featured hummingbirds as central characters.
- Link to sugar plantations – Hummingbirds pollinated the flowers of sugarcane, an economic cornerstone for centuries in Trinidad.
- Symbol of freedom – After emancipation from slavery in the 1800s, hummingbirds represented freedom and spiritual rebirth.
- Artistic inspiration – Hummingbirds have been popular subjects for Trinidad’s writers, artists, and musicians.
- Tourism draw – Trinidad’s high diversity of hummingbird species has become a major tourist attraction.
Today the hummingbird remains a national symbol of Trinidad, appearing on currency, stamps, commercial products, and in festivals. The island’s passion for its hummingbirds remains strong as ever.
Conclusion: A Bird and a Nation
In the end, the deep bond between Trinidad and its hummingbirds comes down to a convergence of nature and culture. The island’s ideal conditions allow these special birds to thrive in abundance. And the beauty of the hummingbirds inspired – and was inspired by – the people who made Trinidad their home. Nowhere else in the world hosts such a diversity of hummingbirds, and nowhere else do the people so proudly celebrate their iconic ” endemic birds.” Trinidad’s hummingbirds will continue to dazzle and inspire for generations to come in this fertile land that they call home.
