Red-billed Streamertail
The Red-billed Streamertail is a spectacular hummingbird endemic to Jamaica. It is famous for its striking appearance, featuring a bright red bill and elongated tail feathers in males, which stream behind them like delicate ribbons. The plumage is iridescent green, making it a vibrant sight among the flowers it frequents.
These birds inhabit a range of environments across Jamaica, including forests, gardens, and plantations. They are highly adaptable and are often seen in both rural and urban areas. The Red-billed Streamertail plays a crucial role in pollination, feeding on nectar from a variety of flowering plants. In addition to nectar, they consume small insects and spiders to supplement their diet.
The Red-billed Streamertail is known for its acrobatic flight patterns, especially during courtship displays where males perform elaborate aerial maneuvers to attract females. The flying moves include tail-waving and hovering -- all to display their magnificent tail feathers.
The Red-billed Streamertail is a symbol of Jamaica and holds cultural significance on the island.