Amethyst Woodstar (Calliphlox amethystina) - the smallest hummingbird of Kabalebo

Hummingbirds are known for their tiny size, shimmering colors and their unique way of flying in front of flowers. 

As I already said, hummingbirds are one of my favorites, here in Suriname they are also known as kolibries. In Kabalebo, a remote place in the interior of Suriname, I was able to identify at least 16 species. The last one to join 'the club' is the Amethyst Woodstar.


Amethyst Woodstars are one of the smallest hummingbirds in Suriname. According to 'the Bird of Surinam' book they weigh less then 3 grams. Little is known about this small creature, supposedly of its tiny size and bumblebee-like fly.


My 'lucky' day started on February 13th 2014. In front of a blossoming branch I saw something flying near the flowers. At first I thought it was a bumble bee, but after a second good look I noticed that it was a hummingbird. The smallest one I've seen so far. I tried to take some pictures but because it was so small, my camera couldn't 'find' it. I managed to take only 2 (!!) blurry pictures the first day.


Luckily, for me, it stayed at least 7 more days nearby so I was able to take some great pictures. Not only was it an Amethyst Woodstar, it appeared to be a juvenile too. Meaning that it was born and raised here in Kabalebo. The juvenile stayed here until February the 20, 2014 and left the next day. During its stay it was such a great joy to see it enjoying its surroundings (blossoming flowers)

Here are some nice pictures I was able to capture of the Amethyst Woodstar. I hope you enjoy the photos, as it was extremely difficult to take great shots. 

Here is the smallest hummingbird of Kabalebo: the Amethyst Woodstar, this one is a juvenile.

An agile hummingbird. Here it is 'attacking'.

The blossoming flowers are at least 18 cm long. Just to know how tiny the Amethyst Woodstar is.

Interesting to know: the flower it is sipping nectar from is only 6 cm long. Amazing little creature.

The Amethyst Woodstar once again 'attacking'.