Best time to travel to Rio de Janeiro

Swallow-Tailed Hummingbird in Rio de Janeiro

Watching colourful Hummingbirds play and try to attract each other will make your day

Best time: October–March

Swallow-Tailed Hummingbird

The Swallow-tailed Hummingbird is a beautiful tiny bird with a green and blue body and a long tail. It usually lives in urban and suburban areas and feeds on nectar which is why it has a long beak as well. Sometimes it may catch some insects in flight ​for additional protein. These little creatures can be pretty aggressive with each other and sometimes even larger birds that are too close to their feeding or nesting area. They are also very peculiar to watch during their mating season that occurs between October and March mostly because of their rapid zigzag dances and their singing (usually right before sunrise).

Practical info

What is the best time to visit Rio de Janeiro to see Swallow-tailed Hummingbirds?

To catch a glimpse of the lively Swallow-tailed Hummingbirds in Rio de Janeiro, it's advisable to visit the city between October and March due to the birds' breeding season. During this time, the birds are highly active and visible, performing their distinctive zigzag dances and singing, often just before sunrise. Show more

Where are the best locations to see Swallow-tailed Hummingbirds in Rio de Janeiro?

Urban and suburban areas of Rio de Janeiro host a large population of Swallow-tailed Hummingbirds. Sightings are commonly reported in forested areas, gardens and parks. Among the best places to observe these birds are Tijuca National Park, Parque Lage, Jardim Botanico, and Pedra Bonita, all easily accessible by car or public transport and boasting well-established trails for bird watching. Show more

How do Swallow-tailed Hummingbirds attract mates?

Swallow-tailed Hummingbird males exhibit their fitness to attract a mate by performing lively zigzag dances and singing. During breeding season, occurring between October and March, male birds engage in aerial chases to ward off competitors while females prefer fit and strong males that demonstrate vigorous courtship performances. Show more

Are Swallow-tailed Hummingbirds aggressive towards humans?

Swallow-tailed Hummingbirds do not pose a threat to humans, although they may be hostile towards other birds approaching their feeding and nesting area. It's advisable to keep a safe distance from the birds' territory and refrain from disturbing their nests when sighted during birdwatching activities. Show more

What is the usual lifespan of a Swallow-tailed Hummingbird in the wild?

Swallow-tailed Hummingbirds' usual lifespan in their natural habitat is between 3-4 years, although it's possible for them to live up to 8 years. The birds' survival rate is attributed to various factors, including food and nesting availability, predation, and illnesses. Although the birds are not endangered, conservation efforts are crucial to maintain healthy populations of the species in its natural environment. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin