White-crested Coquette

Lophornis adorabilis

The White-crested Coquette, *Lophornis adorabilis*, is a diminutive and dazzling hummingbird, instantly recognizable by its spectacular plumage. Males sport a vibrant iridescent green body with a conspicuous white, filamentous crest that flares outward, complemented by an equally striking iridescent emerald green gorget bordered by a white line. They typically measure around 6.5 to 7.5 cm (2.5-3 inches) in length and weigh a mere 2.5 to 3 grams. Females, while lacking the elaborate crest and ...

Habitat

This coquette prefers humid evergreen and semi-deciduous forests, forest edges, and second-growth woodlands, typically found from lowlands up to elevations of about 1,500 meters (4,900 feet).

Diet

Primarily feeds on nectar from a variety of small, flowering plants, supplementing its diet with tiny insects and spiders gleaned from foliage or caught in flight.

Behavior

White-crested Coquettes are diurnal, actively foraging for nectar throughout the day, often trap-lining a circuit of flowering plants. Males are highly territorial during the breeding season, aggressively defending prime feeding areas and display perches from rivals and even larger hummingbirds. ...

Range

The White-crested Coquette is a resident species primarily found in Central America, with its core distribution spanning the Pacific slopes of Costa Rica and western Panama. In Costa Rica, it is most frequently observed in the lowlands and foothills, extending up to around 1,500 meters (4,900 fee...

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Fun Facts

- The White-crested Coquette is one of the smallest bird species in its range, often weighing less than a quarter. - Its scientific name, *Lophornis adorabilis*, translates roughly to "adorable crested-bird," a fitting description for its dazzling appearance. - Males possess an elaborate crest an...

Back to Encyclopedia