Nature Field Guide
Coppery-headed Emerald
- Spanish name
- Esmeralda de coronilla cobriza
- Scientific name
- Microchera cupreiceps
What Do Pico & Tati Think?
Pico: “Does this tiny bird live only in Costa Rica?”
Tati: “Yes. Endemic means its natural range is limited to one place.”
Species overview
About the Coppery-headed Emerald
Male coppery-headed emeralds have shining green plumage with coppery color on the crown and central tail area. White outer tail feathers and a slightly curved bill provide helpful identification clues.
Females have pale underparts and a different overall pattern. This bird belongs to Costa Rica’s humid mountain and foothill forests. Its restricted national range makes keeping suitable forest habitat especially meaningful.
Identification
Key Features of the Coppery-headed Emerald
Male coppery crown
White outer tail feathers
Small size and slightly curved bill
Habitat & range
Costa Rican endemic of humid northern and central mountain slopes, from the Guanacaste range toward the northern Reventazon valley. Seasonal descent occurs; dry coastal Guanacaste is unsuitable.
Local observations
Costa Rica: resident.
When to observe
A resident bird; suitable habitat matters throughout the year. Quiet morning observation is a useful starting point, with activity varying by weather and location.
Conservation & care
Observe quietly from trails or established viewing areas. Give nests, roosts and feeding birds space. Do not handle, chase or lure birds with playback. Keep pets away from wildlife.
Threats & pressures
Protect native vegetation, reduce collision hazards around glass and keep cats away from birds. These are practical prevention priorities, not a claim of a measured decline at a specific Costa Rican site.
Observation activity
Compare a male and female photograph. Find the shared bill shape and white tail areas.
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Caribbean · Central Highlands · Guanacaste · Northern Plains · Alajuela · Outdoor Adventures · Wildlife & Animals