Hummingbirds in Costa Rica: 6 Species and How to Spot Them

Costa Rica is home to over 50 species of hummingbirds. I know, crazy, right? These tiny, iridescent birds are captivating to watch as they dart from flower to flower, often coming surprisingly close to people.

If you’re not a dedicated birder, you might not want to memorize all 50+ species. The good news? There are just a handful that you’re very likely to encounter during your visit. Below are six of the most common and easiest to spot hummingbirds in Costa Rica.

We created this guide to walk you through:

• The most common hummingbird species in Costa Rica
• How to identify them by appearance and behavior
• The best places in the country to see them
• Fun hummingbird facts
• Tips for spotting them in the wild
• How to attract them to your garden (even at home!)

Let’s get into it!

1. Rufous-tailed Hummingbird

This is one of the most widespread hummingbirds in Costa Rica, and one of the easiest to spot. It is known for its bold attitude and striking tail, it’s a common visitor to backyard feeders.

Appearance

• Bright emerald green body
• Distinctive rufous (reddish-orange) tail
• Straight black bill
• About 4 inches (10 cm) long

Fun Facts

• One of the most aggressive and territorial hummingbirds in Costa Rica
• Will chase away much larger birds from feeders
• They are often the first hummingbird people see in gardens
• Found almost everywhere below 2,200 m

Where to Spot Them

• Common in gardens, parks, and forest edges
• Frequently seen around feeders in La Fortuna, San José suburbs, and the Central Valley
• There is a chance you could see them almost anywhere in the country

2. Green-crowned Brilliant

Appearance

• Males: Shimmering green body with a violet throat and bright green crown
• Females: Speckled white throat and belly with a bold white stripe behind the eye
• Around 5 inches (13 cm) long

Fun Facts

• Often dominates hummingbird feeders with confidence
• Loves Heliconia and other tubular flowers
• Found mostly in cloud forests

Where to Spot Them

They are very common in Monteverde and Poás Volcano areas

3. Fiery-throated Hummingbird

Appearance

• Dark green body with blue wings and tail
• When caught in the right light, throat flashes brilliant orange, gold, and blue
• Medium-sized: about 4.3 inches (11 cm)

Fun Facts

• Found only in high elevation areas
• Can appear dull unless the sun hits their throat just right
• One of the most aggressive species at feeders

Where to Spot Them

• Cerro de la Muerte, San Gerardo de Dota, and Talamanca range
• Look for them above 2,500 m

4. Snowy-bellied Hummingbird

A quieter species, the Snowy-bellied Hummingbird is often seen perched in gardens. It’s less showy, but still quite beautiful with its white belly and bronze flanks.

Appearance

• Green upperparts and coppery flanks
• Bright white belly and a red-and-black bill
• Around 3.9 inches (10 cm)

Fun Facts

• Less aggressive, often overlooked next to more vibrant species
• Often perches in the open on twigs or fences
• Native to southern Costa Rica and Panama

Where to Spot Them

They are often only seen in a small area of the jungle near the Southern Pacific Coast.

5. Violet Sabrewing

Appearance

• Males: Deep violet plumage with green back and curved black bill
• Females: Green above with white belly and violet flecks on the throat
• Largest hummingbird in Costa Rica at about 6 inches (15 cm)

Fun Facts

• Named for the broad, sabre-like flight feathers on the wings
• Flies with slow, strong wingbeats and hovers in place
• Males often perch in open areas to display

Where to Spot Them

• Monteverde, San Gerardo de Dota, and foothills of both slopes
• Often seen in hummingbird gardens at lodges

6. White-necked Jacobin

This flashy hummingbird is known for its boldness and frequent visits to lowland feeders. Males, in particular, stand out with their rich colors.

Appearance

• Males: Deep blue head and chest, white belly, green back
• Females: Green back with white belly and green flecks on throat
• Medium-sized: about 4.7 inches (12 cm)

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Fun Facts

• Bold and curious; often approaches people at feeders
• Flashes white tail feathers in flight
• Common in lowland rainforests

Where to Spot Them

• The Central and Southern Pacific Coast
• Caribbean lowlands, especially near Tortuguero and Cahuita

Where to See Hummingbirds in Costa Rica

If you’re eager to spot hummingbirds during your trip, these places are known for consistent sightings and even dedicated viewing areas:

• Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
• La Paz Waterfall Gardens
• San Gerardo de Dota
• Hummingbird Cafes

Several lodges and cafes in Costa Rica have established “hummingbird cafes,” where they maintain feeders to attract large numbers of hummingbirds. These are perfect for photography or relaxed birdwatching over coffee.

How to Attract Hummingbirds at Home

You don’t have to be in the tropics to enjoy hummingbirds. For example, my parents live in Massachusetts and my mom frequently has hummingbirds in her backyard in the summer.

If you love hummingbirds, here are some easy tips for attracting them to your own yard:

1. Set Up a Nectar Feeder

Use a feeder with red accents and fill it with this simple homemade nectar:

• 1 part white sugar
• 4 parts water
• No red dye needed (and it’s not healthy for them)

Boil the water, dissolve the sugar, and let it cool. Change the nectar every 2–3 days to prevent fermentation or mold.

It is also possible to buy pre-made hummingbird feeder liquid, but it is way more affordable to just make it yourself.

Buy a Hummingbird Feeder Here

2. Provide Native Plants

Plant tubular, nectar-rich flowers like:

• Salvia (Sage)
• Bee balm
• Trumpet vine
• Coral honeysuckle

These attract hummingbirds naturally and create a colorful garden.

3. Place Feeders Near Shelter

Hang feeders near shrubs or trees to give hummingbirds a safe place to perch and rest between feedings.

4. Keep Things Clean

Clean feeders at least once a week with hot water (no soap). During hot weather, we suggest cleaning it more frequently.

5. Add a Water Feature

Hummingbirds love to bathe in fine mist or shallow moving water. If you are really a hummingbird fan, you might want to consider a gentle fountain or misting sprayer.

Final Thoughts on Hummingbirds in Costa Rica

Even after all these years in Costa Rica, hummingbirds still stop us in our tracks. There’s something magical about spotting a flash of color zipping through the garden or catching that perfect throat shimmer when the sun hits just right.

Whether you’re watching them from a cloud forest balcony, a jungle café, or your own backyard feeder, these tiny birds bring a whole lot of joy. They’re fast, feisty, and totally unforgettable.

Seen a hummingbird in Costa Rica? Have a favorite species or tip to share? Drop it in the comments. We’d love to hear about your hummingbird moments!

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