Behavior

Merida Flowerpiercer is usually solitary, or sometimes in pairs (Hilty 2003). It tends to remain independent, but sometimes follows mixed species flocks (Hilty 2003). The species is regarded as easy to observe, despite its nervous and high-strung behavior (Hilty 2003). It works quickly through patches of flowers (Hilty 2003), and flies low between subsequent patches (Hilty 2011). While breeding, Merida Flowerpiercer feeds and aggressively defends territory with its mate; when alone, it also maintains its territory independently (Hilty 2003). Overall, its behavior is considered similar to that of Black Flowerpiercer (Diglossa humeralis) (Ridgely and Tudor 1989).

There is very little information on territorial defense, maintenance, or fidelity, or for territory or home range size, for Merida Flowerpiercer. Generally, members of the Diglossa carbonaria superspecies, presumably including Merida Flowerpiercer, aggressively defend flower patches or territories from both hummingbirds and from other flowerpiercers (Moynihan 1979). Feeding territories are defended by pairs when breeding, but individually during the rest of the year (Hilty 2003).

Little information; apparently Merida Flowerpiercer is at least socially monogamous (Hilty 2003). Vuilleumier and Ewert (1978) observed a pair "engaged in flight pursuits and song", which they interpreted as courtship behavior, but they did not provide a more detailed account.

Merida Flowerpiercer usually is solitary, although they occasionally associate with mixed species flocks (Hilty 2003).

No reported observations of predation on Merida Flowerpiercer?