Stephanoxis loddigesii
The Purple-crowned Plovercrest (*Stephanoxis loddigesii*) is a diminutive and striking hummingbird, measuring approximately 9-10 cm in length and weighing a mere 3-4 grams. Males are particularly stunning, adorned with a brilliant iridescent purple crown that can appear dark blue or black depending on the light, contrasting sharply with their dark green upperparts and prominent white post-ocular spot leading to distinctive white ear tufts. Their underparts are a mixture of dark green on the t...
This species primarily inhabits the understory and edges of humid Atlantic Forest, often found in montane and submontane evergreen forests. It thrives in elevations typically ranging from 500 to 1800 meters, preferring areas with dense vegetation and proximity to water sources.
The Purple-crowned Plovercrest primarily feeds on nectar collected from a variety of flowering plants, supplementing its diet with small insects and spiders obtained through hover-gleaning or hawking.
Purple-crowned Plovercrests are diurnal and highly active, spending their days foraging for nectar and insects. They employ a combination of traplining, visiting a regular circuit of flowering plants, and territorial defense, particularly males guarding patches of abundant flowers. Courtship disp...
The Purple-crowned Plovercrest is a resident species endemic to the humid forests of southeastern South America. Its primary distribution encompasses southeastern Brazil, extending from the state of Espírito Santo southwards through Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Paraná, Santa Catarina, to Rio Grande...
Least Concern
- The "Plovercrest" in its name is unique for a hummingbird, likely due to its distinctive head ornamentation resembling the crests of some plover species. - Despite its small size, this hummingbird maintains an incredibly high metabolic rate, requiring frequent feeding throughout the day. - Male...