Species profile
About this species
The Copper-rumped Hummingbird is a small, vibrant hummingbird native to Trinidad & Tobago & parts of Venezuela. It is characterised by its iridescent green plumage, distinctive copper-coloured rump, & relatively straight bill. This species is one of the most common hummingbirds on Trinidad, where it is frequently observed visiting garden flowers & forest edges.
Found in a wide range of habitats including forest edges, gardens, scrubland & secondary growth. On Trinidad it is particularly common in cultivated areas & suburban gardens where flowering plants are abundant, as well as in the understorey of humid lowland forest.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Copper-rumped Hummingbird with us in Trinidad & Tobago.
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 is ideal when birds are most active & feeding frequently. On the Tropical Birds Of Trinidad trip in April 2028, the warm season light in the morning hours - roughly 6am to 9am - provides excellent conditions. The species is resident year-round on Trinidad, so any visit offers opportunities.
Set up near flowering plants such as heliconia or garden feeders where the species regularly feeds, allowing for predictable framing opportunities. Use a fast shutter speed of at least 1/2000s to freeze the rapid wingbeats & capture sharp detail in the iridescent plumage. On the April Trinidad trip, early morning sessions offer the best light & highest activity levels, so position yourself with the sun behind you for maximum colour rendition.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Copper-rumped Hummingbird
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.