Ruby-topaz Hummingbird (Chrysolampis mosquitus)

The Ruby-topaz Hummingbird (Chrysolampis mosquitus), commonly referred to simply as the Ruby topaz, is a small bird that breeds in the Lesser Antilles and tropical northern South America. It is the only member of the genus Chrysolampis.  This stunning little beauty is a seasonal migrant, although its movements are not well understood.  I took these photos at Yerette in Trinidad.  Better photos are in the links below.

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They have a huge range from Venezuela and the Guyanas, south to central Brazil and northern Bolivia; also from Colombia into southern PanamaYerette in Trinidad is a good place to see them.

rubytopaz

LEARN MORE ABOUT RUBY-TOPAZ HUMMINGBIRDS

Wikipedia

Birdlife

Neotropical Birds

American Bird Conservancy

VIDEOS

Watch how his colours change in the light as he moves!

 

A very lucky group of birders have found some Ruby-topazes in the wild, see the little guys in action!

Sound of the Ruby-topaz