Hummingbirds of La Fortuna

About Costa Rican Hummingbirds

Nature's most incredible flying machines

Fascinating Flying Jewels

Costa Rica is home to over 50 species of hummingbirds, making it one of the best places in the world to observe these remarkable birds. La Fortuna and the surrounding areas provide perfect habitats for many species, from the cloud forests to the lower elevations.

Hummingbirds are known for their incredible flying abilities, including the ability to hover, fly backwards, and even upside down. Their rapid wing beats (up to 80 times per second) and brilliant iridescent plumage make them a favorite among bird watchers and nature photographers.

Incredible Flight

Hover, fly backwards, and even upside down

Brilliant Colors

Iridescent plumage that shimmers in sunlight

High Metabolism

Heart rates up to 1,260 beats per minute

Hummingbird Species of La Fortuna

Meet the most common and spectacular species you can encounter

Black-crested Coquette

One of the most distinctive hummingbirds in Costa Rica, the Black-crested Coquette is easily identified by its unique black crest and white-tipped tail. Males have a striking black and white pattern with a bright orange bill.

2.5 inches Low elevations Year-round

Blue-throated Goldentail

This stunning hummingbird features a brilliant blue throat patch and golden tail feathers. Found in forest edges and gardens, it's known for its distinctive vocalizations and territorial behavior.

3.5 inches Forest edges Year-round

Green-crowned Brilliant

A large and impressive hummingbird with brilliant green plumage and a distinctive forked tail. Males have a bright green crown and throat, while females are more subdued in coloration.

4.5 inches Cloud forests Year-round

Crowned Woodnymph

This medium-sized hummingbird is known for its violet crown and green body. It's commonly found in gardens and forest edges, where it feeds on nectar from a variety of flowering plants.

3.2 inches Gardens & forests Year-round

Green Hermit

A large, distinctive hummingbird with a long, curved bill and green plumage. The Green Hermit is often found in the understory of forests, where it feeds on heliconia flowers and other tubular blossoms.

5.5 inches Forest understory Year-round

Many More Species

And Many More...

La Fortuna is home to dozens of hummingbird species, including Rufous-tailed Hummingbird, Violet Sabrewing, Long-billed Hermit, and many others. Each species has its own unique characteristics and preferred habitats.

50+ species Various habitats Year-round

Best Viewing Tips

How to spot and photograph hummingbirds in La Fortuna

Best Times

Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to see hummingbirds, as they are most active when temperatures are moderate and flowers are in bloom.

Photography Tips

Use a fast shutter speed (1/1000 or faster) to freeze their rapid wing beats. Set up near flowering plants or feeders for the best opportunities.

Prime Locations

Visit gardens, forest edges, and areas with flowering plants. Many hotels and nature reserves have hummingbird feeders that attract multiple species.

Equipment

Bring binoculars for close-up views and a camera with a telephoto lens. Patience and quiet observation are key to successful hummingbird watching.

Conservation & Protection

Helping preserve Costa Rica's hummingbird populations

Habitat Protection

Costa Rica's extensive national park system and private reserves help protect the diverse habitats that hummingbirds depend on for survival.

Native Plants

Planting native flowering species in gardens and maintaining natural vegetation helps provide essential food sources for hummingbirds.

Responsible Tourism

Eco-friendly tourism practices help ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy these magnificent birds in their natural habitats.