Rufous-tailed Hummingbird – Volcan Arenal, CR

The Rufous-tailed Hummingbird is one of the most familiar birds around the Arenal Observatory Lodge. This individual perched just outside the restaurant long enough for us to admire its emerald-green and chestnut coloring. Despite being common, they are never dull, darting between flowers before pausing on an exposed perch to watch for rivals. Males are fiercely territorial and will challenge birds much larger than themselves if nectar is at stake. This includes the Banaquits who would take cover in the thick leaves after a targeted attack. If you spend time around the gardens and forest edge at the lodge, this is often the Rufous-tailed hummingbird that greets you first. They are always fun to spend time with.