Cynanthus auriceps
The Golden-crowned Emerald (Cynanthus auriceps) is a captivating and relatively small hummingbird, measuring approximately 9-10 cm (3.5-4 in) in length and weighing a mere 3-4 grams. Males are stunning, characterized by an iridescent golden-green crown, brilliant metallic green body plumage, and a contrasting dark, deeply forked tail. Their straight bill is typically red at the base, fading to a black tip. Females, while still attractive, exhibit less iridescence, with grayish underparts, a d...
Found in semi-arid to humid evergreen and deciduous forests, forest edges, scrublands, and clearings, typically at elevations between 500-2000 meters.
Mainly feeds on nectar from a variety of flowering plants, supplemented by small insects and spiders captured in flight or gleaned from vegetation.
Golden-crowned Emeralds are primarily diurnal, often exhibiting torpor during cold nights to conserve energy. They are adept foragers, employing a 'trap-lining' strategy where they repeatedly visit a circuit of flower patches, as well as gleaning small insects from foliage or hawking them in mid-...
The Golden-crowned Emerald is endemic to Mexico, primarily found in the western and central parts of the country. Its breeding range extends from Nayarit and Jalisco eastward through Michoacán, Guerrero, México, Morelos, Puebla, and Oaxaca. There are two recognized subspecies: *Cynanthus auriceps...
Least Concern
- The Golden-crowned Emerald can beat its wings an astonishing 50-80 times per second, enabling its characteristic hovering flight. - Like many hummingbirds, it can enter a state of torpor, a hibernation-like inactivity, to conserve energy during cold periods or food scarcity. - Its dazzling gold...