Black jacobin

The black jacobin is native to South America, primarily found in Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay. It heavily prefers the humid lowland and montane forests of the Atlantic Forest biome. It is a monotypic species, meaning there are no recognized subspecies.

The black jacobin features striking dark iridescent plumage, appearing almost entirely black in poor lighting but flashing deep purples and blues in the sun. Behind its eye is a small white spot, and it has a slightly decurved black bill. Its tail is notably forked and produces a distinctive humming sound during flight.

Like most hummingbirds, the black jacobin feeds primarily on the nectar of brightly colored, tubular flowers from various epiphytes and understory plants. It will also aggressively defend these nectar sources from other hummingbirds. Additionally, it catches small insects on the wing to provide necessary protein.

Currently, the black jacobin is classified as a species of Least Concern by the IUCN. Because it adapts relatively well to fragmented habitats and human-altered landscapes, its population remains stable. However, the ongoing destruction of the Atlantic Forest still poses a localized threat to its natural breeding grounds.