Species profile
About this species
The Black-tailed Trainbearer is a striking hummingbird native to the Andes of Colombia, Ecuador & Peru, named for the male's remarkably long, forked black tail that can exceed the length of its body. The male displays vivid iridescent green plumage on its throat & upperparts, while the female is more subtly marked with spotted underparts & a shorter tail. This species inhabits open & semi-open highland areas, often visiting flowering shrubs & hedgerows at considerable altitude.
Highland Andean shrublands, forest edges, hedgerows & gardens at elevations roughly between 2000 & 3500 metres above sea level in Colombia, Ecuador & Peru.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Black-tailed Trainbearer with us in Colombia.
These departures are part of our South America programme.
In the field, David Miles helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Early morning & late afternoon during the dry season months of June to September offer the best light & most active feeding behaviour. Hummingbirds are generally most active in the morning hours when energy levels are highest.
Use a fast shutter speed of at least 1/2000s to freeze the rapid wingbeats & tail movement of this species. Position yourself near flowering plants where individuals are known to feed regularly, as they will return to favourite blooms, allowing you to pre-focus & compose your shot. Shoot in the golden hours when soft directional light enhances the iridescent colour of the plumage & reduces harsh shadows.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Black-tailed Trainbearer
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.