Jamaica's National Symbols: The Doctor Bird & Blue Mahoe

Avian & Arboreal Emblems of the Island

National Bird: Doctor Bird (Red-billed Streamertail)

Scientific name: Trochilus polytmus
Endemic: Found only in Jamaica.

• Appearance: Male has iridescent green body, black crown, and spectacular long, forked tail streamers (15–18 cm) with metallic blue-black sheen. Female lacks streamers, white-tipped tail.
• Habitat: Gardens, woodlands, coffee plantations, forest edges—sea level to 1,500 m.
• Behavior: Territorial; feeds on nectar (hibiscus, heliconia), insects. Distinctive whirring wing sound.
• Cultural role: Featured on Jamaican $1 coin, postage, airline livery (Air Jamaica). Symbol of beauty, resilience, uniqueness.

National Tree: Blue Mahoe

Scientific name: Hibiscus elatus (formerly Talipariti elatum)
Native: Caribbean, Central America.

• Form: Deciduous, up to 20–25 m tall, straight trunk, broad crown.
• Leaves: Large, heart-shaped (15–25 cm), velvety.
• Flowers: Showy, hibiscus-like, yellow aging to orange-red, 8–13 cm wide.
• Wood: Distinctive blue-green streaks in heartwood—prized for furniture, cabinetry, musical instruments, carving.
• Ecology: Fast-growing; used in reforestation, agroforestry. Nectar attracts pollinators.

Shared Significance

Both symbols reflect Jamaica's biodiversity (high endemism) and cultural pride. The Doctor Bird's iridescence mirrors the Blue Mahoe's colorful timber—natural treasures found nowhere else.