Scissor-tailed Hummingbird

Rare, range-restricted and a true prize: endemic to the Paria Peninsula and the only member of its genus. Population estimated ~3,000–4,000 mature individuals and declining from forest clearance. Locally findable at known sites (Cerro El Humo) but requires effort, the right elevation, and a flowering tree; access and security are real constraints.

Large hummingbird with a very long, deeply forked, scissor-like blackish tail. Male dark green-bodied with a glittering green throat/gorget and a violet-blue forecrown/cap; the long forked tail is diagnostic and gives the bird its name. Female shorter-tailed, green above, whitish/buff below with green spotting and a forked dusky tail. In range, the male's scissor tail + violet cap is unmistakable.

Lower and upper montane humid forest of the Paria Peninsula, recorded ~500–1,200 m (best around 800–1,200 m on Cerro El Humo); feeds in the canopy and mid-levels, notably at flowering bromeliads, Heliconia and Costus.

Often high in the canopy at flowering trees/epiphytes; traplines bromeliads and Heliconia, with males perching on exposed twigs and dropping the long tail. Activity peaks at flowering canopy trees, so finding the right bloom is the key to finding the bird.

High, thin, sibilant chips and twittering typical of large trochilines; no loud song. Search Xeno-canto / Macaulay Library for 'Hylonympha macrocerca' or 'Scissor-tailed Hummingbird'; recordings are limited given its rarity, so learn it visually as much as by ear.

Plan the trip AROUND this bird: hike Cerro El Humo to the ~900–1,200 m flowering band, find a blooming canopy tree, and stake it out for the male's trapline visits rather than walking the trail hoping for a flyby. It is range-restricted and Endangered, so treat sightings as a flagship moment for clients — and confirm guides, permits and security on the Paria Peninsula well in advance.