Lophornis chalybeus
The Festive Coquette (*Lophornis chalybeus*) is a dazzlingly ornate hummingbird, a true jewel of the Neotropics, measuring a mere 6.4-7.5 cm (2.5-3 in) and weighing around 2.5-3 grams. Males are immediately identifiable by their iridescent green body plumage, a distinctive short rufous-chestnut crest, and especially by their elongated, paddle-shaped emerald-green ear tufts that frame a glittering green gorget. Complementing this finery is a deeply forked purplish-bronze tail and chestnut unde...
This species primarily inhabits humid tropical and subtropical lowland forests, frequenting edges, clearings, secondary growth, open woodlands, and gardens. It is typically found from sea level up to 1,000 meters, occasionally reaching higher elevations.
Mainly nectar from a diverse array of small, often tubular flowers found in the forest understory, supplemented by small insects and spiders captured by aerial hawking or gleaning from foliage.
The Festive Coquette is a diurnal and highly active feeder, constantly foraging to fuel its rapid metabolism, often perching quietly in dense foliage during less active periods. It primarily feeds by 'trap-lining,' visiting a circuit of scattered flowers, but males will also aggressively defend p...
The Festive Coquette is a resident species primarily found in southeastern Brazil, extending from Espírito Santo and Minas Gerais south through Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo to Santa Catarina. Its range also stretches westward into eastern Paraguay and northeastern Argentina, specifically in Misio...
Least Concern
- The 'coquette' in its name refers to the male's elaborate, flamboyant head ornamentation, resembling a decorative wig. - Weighing less than a U.S. penny, it is one of the smallest bird species in its South American range. - Its dazzling iridescent colors are structural, meaning they are produce...