The Cuban Emerald (Riccordia ricordii) is a humming bird that is described as 'pugnacious' in a number of the sources I have accessed. That's not how I remember this bird - but I was probably just being too excited at being in the presence of hummers to cast a judgement on its behaviour!
Despite its common name this species can be found in a few places outside of Cuba including on Grand Bahama. These birds were all photographed in Cuba.
As can be seen from a number of these images, this species will readily feed around feeders, and readily uses other human-made habitats including gardens. Possibly because of this adaptability, this species is not considered to be under threat.
Male Cuban emeralds are between 10.5 and 11.5 cm long, while females are 9.5 to 10.5 cm long. The species weighs between 2.5 and 5 g (0.088 and 0.18 oz). So while it may be pugnacious it is not very big!
I'd love to get back to the wider Americas to see more species of humming bird - but I think I may have to wait a while. Meanwhile I will be in the second week of my current adventure when this post publishes.
Hope all is well. Stewart M.
Hari OM
ReplyDeleteThey are rather mesmeric, aren't they? Lovely shots, as always. YAM xx
Love the Cuban Emerald shots. Hope I can see one in person someday too.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful captures, Stewart.
ReplyDeleteGreat shots Stewart..Love their color!! .Hummers have always been very illusive to me..I guess I'm not quick enough..Hope you are well..
ReplyDeleteWOW! Stewart You did a great job at photographing these Hummingbirds. While I was in Costa Rica I saw many varieties however I found them all very difficult to shot. Well done. Beautiful to watch in the wide. Thanks for hosting and commenting. I hope you have a lovely week ahead.
ReplyDeleteSuch a beauty. The green shimmers!
ReplyDeleteI tend to think all hummers can be pugnacious! But they are so gorgeous.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Stewart
ReplyDeleteBeautiful hummingbirds! Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteHummingbirds are truly beautiful birds. Great photos.
ReplyDeleteStunning! It's so hard to capture them at rest.
ReplyDeleteIt’s amazing how such a tiny bird can have such a bold personality, even if it’s just a hint of pugnacity. I love hearing how adaptable they are, feeding around people and in gardens; it makes them feel a little closer, like a spark of nature visiting your backyard.
ReplyDeleteLovely photos, can't wait for the ruby throated hummingbird to return to our garden this spring.
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