Species profile
About this species
The Chestnut-breasted Coronet is a striking hummingbird native to the Andean slopes of Ecuador & Peru. It is characterised by its rich chestnut-orange underparts, glittering green upperparts, & a white patch behind the eye. This medium-sized hummingbird is commonly found in cloud forest habitats where it feeds on nectar from a variety of flowering plants.
Cloud forests & humid montane forests along the eastern Andean slopes, typically at elevations between 1500 & 2800 metres, where dense vegetation & abundant flowering plants provide feeding & nesting opportunities.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Chestnut-breasted Coronet with us in Peru.
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 hours shortly after dawn are ideal, when the birds are most active feeding. The dry season months from June to September generally offer clearer skies & more predictable light in the Andean cloud forests.
Use a fast shutter speed of at least 1/2000s to freeze the rapid wingbeats & capture sharp detail in the wings. Position yourself near flowering plants or feeders where the bird regularly visits, allowing you to pre-focus & anticipate its arrival. Shoot during overcast conditions to achieve soft, even lighting that brings out the rich chestnut & green tones without harsh shadows.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Chestnut-breasted Coronet
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.