Selasphorus heloisa
The diminutive Bumblebee Hummingbird, *Selasphorus heloisa*, is a jewel of the Mesoamerican highlands, renowned for its minuscule stature, measuring a mere 5.7 to 6.5 cm (2.2-2.6 inches) and weighing just 2-2.6 grams, making it one of the smallest birds in its range. Males are instantly recognizable by their vibrant, iridescent magenta or purple gorget, a dazzling spectacle that shifts with light, contrasting with a shimmering green back, rufous-cinnamon flanks, and a dark, notched tail. Fema...
This species primarily inhabits humid montane evergreen and pine-oak forests, as well as forest edges and clearings, at elevations typically ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 meters (5,000-10,000 feet). They also adapt to disturbed areas like coffee plantations within their preferred altitudinal band.
Their diet primarily consists of nectar from a variety of small, tubular flowers, supplemented significantly by small insects and spiders gleaned from foliage or caught in mid-air for essential protein. They employ a 'traplining' foraging strategy, repeatedly visiting a circuit of productive flow...
Bumblebee Hummingbirds are intensely active diurnal birds, constantly foraging and defending territories. Males establish small, rich feeding territories, aggressively chasing away intruders with buzzy calls and rapid aerial pursuits. During courtship, the male performs a spectacular aerial displ...
The Bumblebee Hummingbird's primary distribution spans the highlands of Mexico, extending from the Sierra Madre Oriental (Coahuila, Nuevo León, Tamaulipas) south through the Sierra Madre Occidental, the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt, and Oaxaca, into Chiapas. Its range continues southward, with loc...
Least Concern
- The Bumblebee Hummingbird is the smallest hummingbird species found in Mexico. - Its iridescent magenta gorget can appear dark or black in poor light, only flashing its true color when sunlight hits it at the right angle. - Males perform elaborate "J-shaped" or pendulum display flights, diving ...