Green-Crowned Brilliant Hummingbird, Costa Rica: Tropical Beauty

The Green-crowned Brilliant hummingbird is one of the beautiful bird species found in the forests of Costa Rica. With its shimmering green plumage and remarkable ability to hover while feeding, this hummingbird is a fascinating sight for nature lovers and birdwatchers.

A Green-crowned Brilliant hummingbird feeding on a lobster-claw flower, Costa Rica
A Green-crowned Brilliant hummingbird feeding on a lobster-claw flower, Costa Rica


Seeing one feeding on a vibrant lobster-claw flower creates a striking tropical scene. Costa Rica's lush forests and extraordinary biodiversity provide an ideal setting for observing hummingbirds and other wildlife.

Why See the Green-Crowned Brilliant?

  • Admire its brilliant green plumage and distinctive appearance.
  • Watch a hummingbird feeding from tropical flowers.
  • Explore Costa Rica's rich and diverse ecosystems.
  • Enjoy excellent opportunities for birdwatching and photography.
  • Discover colorful wildlife in natural forest habitats.

Quick Facts

  • Species: Green-crowned Brilliant
  • Location: Costa Rica
  • Habitat: Mountain forests and tropical highlands
  • Known for: Iridescent green plumage and hovering flight
  • Best for: Birdwatching, nature, and wildlife photography

A Hummingbird Among Tropical Flowers

The Green-crowned Brilliant is adapted to feeding on nectar from flowers, using its long bill and specialized tongue to reach deep into blossoms. Its rapid wingbeats allow it to remain suspended in the air while feeding.

The lobster-claw flower adds another layer of tropical color to this remarkable scene. These vibrant plants are characteristic of lush tropical environments and can attract hummingbirds searching for nectar.

Planning a trip to Costa Rica means exploring an extraordinary variety of habitats, from cloud forests and mountains to tropical lowlands and coastal ecosystems. These diverse environments make the country a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

Where to Experience Costa Rica's Hummingbirds

  • Monteverde: A famous highland destination surrounded by cloud forests.
  • San Gerardo de Dota: A scenic mountain region known for exceptional birdwatching.
  • Braulio Carrillo National Park: A protected area featuring extensive tropical forests.
  • Central Highlands: Mountain landscapes with diverse bird and plant species.

Best Time to Visit

Costa Rica is a year-round wildlife destination. The dry season, generally from December to April, can provide convenient conditions for exploring many outdoor areas, while the greener months offer lush vegetation and abundant tropical scenery.

Where Is Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is located in Central America between Nicaragua and Panama. Its mountains, rainforests, cloud forests, and tropical ecosystems support an exceptional variety of birds, plants, and other wildlife.

Discover Costa Rica's Wildlife

Watching a Green-crowned Brilliant hummingbird feed on a lobster-claw flower is a beautiful example of Costa Rica's remarkable biodiversity. The combination of colorful birds, tropical flowers, and lush forests makes the country an unforgettable destination for nature lovers.