Lophornis helenae
The Black-crested Coquette (Lophornis helenae) is a diminutive and dazzling hummingbird, measuring approximately 6.5-7.5 cm (2.5-3 inches) in length and weighing a mere 2.5-3 grams. Males are instantly recognizable by their striking, spiky black crest, brilliant iridescent green crown and upperparts, white patch on the flanks, and a short, straight red bill tipped with black. Females, while lacking the flamboyant crest, are still attractive with green upperparts, a dusky cheek contrasting wit...
This species primarily inhabits the canopy and edges of wet evergreen forests, including humid evergreen and semi-deciduous forests, as well as adjacent secondary growth, coffee plantations, and gardens. It typically occurs at low to middle elevations, generally from sea level up to 1,500 meters,...
The diet consists primarily of nectar from a variety of small, often inconspicuous, flowers. They supplement their nectar intake by hawking small insects and spiders in flight, which are crucial for protein.
Black-crested Coquettes are diurnal and largely solitary, spending their days actively foraging. Males are known for their spectacular courtship displays, performing aerial dives and pendulum flights to attract females, often displaying from exposed perches. They are polygynous, with the female s...
The Black-crested Coquette is a resident species distributed across a significant portion of Central America, from southern Mexico south to western Panama. Its range extends from southeastern Oaxaca and Chiapas in Mexico, through Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and into wester...
Least Concern
- The Black-crested Coquette is one of the smallest hummingbird species, often compared to a large bumblebee. - Its spiky black crest on the male is used in elaborate courtship displays to impress females. - The name "Coquette" itself refers to a flirtatious woman, aptly describing the male's sho...