By Sheetal Kumari | July 18, 2025
Get to know the lively and enigmatic Doctor Bird, Jamaica’s national bird and one of the planet’s most distinctive hummingbirds.
(Image: Canva)
The Doctor Bird is a hummingbird species called the Red-billed Streamertail and is found exclusively in Jamaica.
(Image: Canva)
Natives called it “Doctor Bird” because of its long tail feathers that look like a doctor’s ancient-style frock coat.
(Image: Canva)
The Doctor Bird is a national symbol of Jamaican beauty, strength, and cultural identity.
(Image: Canva)
Males have glimmering green feathers and extended tail streamers, a stunning sight in flight.
(Image: Canva)
Female Doctor Birds are less large, have no long tails, and duller colours than the males.
(Image: Canva)
This bird is found only in Jamaica, so it’s a very unique and special component of the island’s fauna.
(Image: Canva)
As with all hummingbirds, Doctor Birds have the ability to hover, fly in reverse, and beat their wings up to 80 times per second.
(Image: Canva)
In Jamaican lore, the Doctor Bird is thought to have magical attributes and spiritual powers.
(Image: Canva)
With its breathtaking beauty and deep symbolism, the Doctor Bird is indeed a feathered gem of Jamaica
(Image: Canva)