Trochilus forficatus

Order: Apodiformes / Family: Trochilidae

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green red small tropical forest migratory feeder common widespread year-round

About the Trochilus forficatus

The Trochilus forficatus, commonly referred to as the Fork-tailed Hummingbird, is a stunning example of avian adaptation within the family Trochilidae. This species is renowned for its highly forked tail, a distinctive trait that aids in its agile flight maneuvers. Found predominantly in the tropical regions of South America, the Fork-tailed Hummingbird thrives in the lush forests and mountainous areas where flowers abound. The bird's ecological role is pivotal as it acts as a primary pollinator for numerous plant species, contributing significantly to the biodiversity of its habitat. During the breeding season, which spans from November to March, Trochilus forficatus engages in elaborate courtship displays to attract mates, often involving aerial acrobatics and vocalizations. Its presence is most notable in countries like Brazil, Peru, and Bolivia, where it inhabits both lowland rainforests and cloud forests at altitudes ranging from 500 to 2,500 meters. The Fork-tailed Hummingbird adapts seasonally, moving to lower elevations during cooler months to sustain access to flowering plants. Its ability to hover and make rapid, darting movements enables it to exploit a wide variety of floral resources and contributes to its role as an efficient pollinator. The hummingbird's ecological interactions extend beyond pollination as it inadvertently aids in controlling insect populations by feeding on small insects, especially during the breeding season when protein demands are higher. This bird's adaptability to various forested environments underscores its importance in maintaining ecological balance. As a species, Trochilus forficatus faces challenges from habitat destruction and climate change, which threaten the availability of its floral resources. Conservation efforts focus on preserving critical habitats and mitigating the impacts of environmental change. The Fork-tailed Hummingbird's presence in diverse ecosystems highlights its role as both a cultural and ecological symbol in the regions it inhabits.

The Trochilus forficatus belongs to the family Trochilidae, within the order Apodiformes. These birds typically live average 4 years with a maximum recorded of 7 years..

How to Identify a Trochilus forficatus

The Fork-tailed Hummingbird, Trochilus forficatus, is easily identifiable by its elongated and deeply forked tail, a feature that distinguishes it from many other hummingbird species. Adult males boast shimmering emerald green plumage on the upperparts, with a vibrant ruby-red throat that catches the light spectacularly. Females, while similarly green, have a more subdued, grayish-white belly and lack the striking throat patch found in males. Juvenile Fork-tailed Hummingbirds resemble adult females but have a more mottled appearance. In flight, the species exhibits a distinctive silhouette characterized by its long tail streamers and rapid wingbeats, essential for its agile aerial maneuvers. When perched, the Fork-tailed Hummingbird maintains an upright posture, with its tail often fanned slightly. This species can be confused with the similar-looking Broad-tailed Hummingbird, but the latter lacks the pronounced fork in the tail. The Fork-tailed Hummingbird's vivid coloration and unique tail structure make it a standout among hummingbirds, aiding both in identification and in its courtship displays.

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Trochilus forficatus Habitat and Range

Preferred Habitat

The Fork-tailed Hummingbird primarily inhabits tropical and subtropical forests, including both lowland rainforests and montane cloud forests. In regions like the Andes, it prefers elevations between 500 and 2,500 meters, where it can find abundant flowering plants. This species shows some adaptability to altered habitats, occasionally visiting gardens and plantations where suitable floral resources are available. Seasonal shifts in elevation occur as the bird seeks to optimize its access to nectar sources, descending to lower altitudes during colder months. While not commonly found in urban settings, it can occasionally appear in rural areas where forest edges intersect with human activity.

Geographic Range

Trochilus forficatus is native to South America, with a range extending across countries such as Brazil, Peru, Bolivia, and parts of Venezuela. During the breeding season, these birds are predominantly found in the interior regions of these countries, favoring habitats that offer dense floral resources. Although primarily non-migratory, some populations may undertake altitudinal migrations, moving to lower elevations during the off-breeding season to avoid colder temperatures. The Fork-tailed Hummingbird has not been observed in North American regions, indicating a more restricted range compared to some migratory hummingbird species.

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What Does the Trochilus forficatus Eat?

The diet of the Fork-tailed Hummingbird is largely nectarivorous, with primary food sources including nectar from a variety of flowering plants such as heliconias and bromeliads. This species also consumes small insects and spiders, which provide necessary proteins, especially during the breeding season. Foraging techniques involve hovering in front of flowers and using their long, specialized bills and extendable tongues to extract nectar. The hummingbird exhibits a preference for red and tubular flowers, which align with its feeding method. Feeding occurs throughout the day, with peak activity levels in the early morning and late afternoon when nectar concentrations are highest.

Want to attract Trochilus forficatuss to your yard? See our recommended feeders and seed types for the best results.

Trochilus forficatus Behavior and Social Structure

The Fork-tailed Hummingbird displays complex social and territorial behaviors. Males establish and vigorously defend territories rich in floral resources, engaging in chase displays to deter intruders. Courtship involves elaborate aerial displays, where males perform rapid dives and loops to attract females. Although generally solitary, these birds may gather in loose aggregations where resources are plentiful. In response to predators, the Fork-tailed Hummingbird relies on its swift flight and agility, often engaging in evasive maneuvers. Its daily activity pattern is crepuscular, with increased feeding and territorial activity occurring at dawn and dusk.

Trochilus forficatus Nesting and Reproduction

Nesting for the Fork-tailed Hummingbird involves the construction of cup-shaped nests, intricately woven from plant fibers and spider silk, often situated on slender branches. Preferred nesting sites include sheltered areas within dense foliage, providing protection from predators and environmental elements. The female solely constructs the nest and incubates the eggs, typically laying two eggs per clutch. The incubation period lasts around 14-16 days, with fledging occurring approximately 20-26 days post-hatching. The species usually raises one to two broods per year, depending on resource availability.

Trochilus forficatus Sounds and Vocalizations

The Fork-tailed Hummingbird's song consists of a series of high-pitched, metallic chips, interspersed with rapid trills. These vocalizations are most prominent during the early morning hours, serving both territorial and courtship functions. Call notes are sharp and distinct, often used to communicate presence or alarm. The dawn chorus, a notable feature of this species' behavior, involves a symphony of calls and songs that announce the bird's presence and territorial claims.

Interesting Facts About the Trochilus forficatus

1The Fork-tailed Hummingbird's tail can measure up to 10 centimeters long, nearly half its total body length, aiding in its remarkable agility.
2Unlike many birds, the Fork-tailed Hummingbird can hover in place by rapidly beating its wings up to 70 times per second, a feat unique to hummingbirds.
3During courtship, males perform impressive aerial displays, reaching speeds of up to 50 kilometers per hour in their dive displays.
4The Fork-tailed Hummingbird's heart rate can exceed 1,200 beats per minute, supporting its high-energy lifestyle and rapid metabolism.
5This species plays a crucial role in pollinating over 130 types of flowers, significantly contributing to the ecosystem's biodiversity.
6A Fork-tailed Hummingbird consumes up to twice its body weight in nectar every day, fueling its high-energy needs.
7Despite its small size, the Fork-tailed Hummingbird has a lifespan of up to 5 years in the wild, a testament to its adaptability and resilience.

Trochilus forficatus Conservation Status

Currently, the Fork-tailed Hummingbird is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, but its population faces pressures from habitat loss due to deforestation and agricultural expansion. Conservation efforts focus on preserving key habitats and promoting sustainable land-use practices. Populations remain stable in protected areas, but ongoing monitoring is essential to address potential threats from climate change and habitat fragmentation.

Attracting Trochilus forficatuss to Your Feeder

The Trochilus forficatus is a regular visitor to backyard bird feeders across its range. At the Eye On The Fly feeding station, we observe Trochilus forficatuss regularly and capture footage with our feeder cameras.

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