Reddish Hermit facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Reddish Hermit |
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Phaethornis
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P. ruber
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| Phaethornis ruber Linnaeus, 1758
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The Reddish Hermit (Phaethornis ruber) is a very small and fast bird. It is a special type of hummingbird. These tiny birds are known for their amazing flying skills. They can hover in the air and even fly backward!
This little hummingbird lives in several countries in South America. You can find it in places like Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Venezuela, and the Guianas. It likes to live in forests and woodlands, especially places that are warm and wet.
About the Reddish Hermit
The Reddish Hermit is one of the smallest hermit hummingbirds. It is only about 7.5 centimeters (about 3 inches) long. That's shorter than a standard pencil!
What It Looks Like
As its name suggests, the Reddish Hermit has feathers that are mostly reddish-brown. It often has a darker stripe through its eye. Like many hummingbirds, it has a long, thin, and slightly curved beak. This special beak helps it reach deep inside flowers.
Where It Lives
This hummingbird makes its home in the dense, humid forests of the Amazon Basin. It prefers areas with lots of trees and plants. These habitats provide the flowers it needs for food. They also offer safe places to build nests and raise young.
What It Eats
Reddish Hermits mainly eat nectar. Nectar is a sweet liquid found inside flowers. They use their long beaks and tongues to sip this sugary treat. Nectar gives them lots of energy to fly so quickly. They also eat tiny insects and spiders. These small creatures provide important protein.
How It Behaves
Reddish Hermits are often seen flying alone. They are very active during the day. They spend a lot of time visiting different flowers to find food. They are important for the plants they visit. As they drink nectar, they help to spread pollen from flower to flower. This process is called pollination. It helps plants make seeds and grow.
