description Bumblebee Hummingbird Overview
The bumblebee hummingbird (Selasphorus heloisa) is a small bird species endemic to the humid highland forests of Mexico. Weighing between 2 and 2.4 grams, it is one of the smallest birds in the world, comparable in size to a large bumblebee. Males display iridescent reddish-pink throats and green crowns, which they use in courtship displays. They sustain their rapid metabolisms by feeding on nectar from various tubular flowers and occasionally catching small insects.
help Bumblebee Hummingbird FAQ
How small is a Bumblebee Hummingbird?
Selasphorus heloisa weighs roughly 2 to 2.4 grams and is only several centimeters long. That makes it one of the world's smallest birds, although Cuba's Bee Hummingbird is generally recognized as the smallest.
Where can the Bumblebee Hummingbird be found?
The species is endemic to Mexico and occurs mainly in humid mountain forests and forest edges. Birders search for it in highland areas rather than the hot coastal habitats associated with many other hummingbirds.
How can you distinguish a male Bumblebee Hummingbird from a female?
An adult male has an iridescent magenta-purple throat patch, while the female lacks the bright gorget and has paler underparts. Both are tiny enough to be mistaken at first glance for large insects.
Is the Bumblebee Hummingbird the same species as the Bee Hummingbird?
No. The Bumblebee Hummingbird is the Mexican species Selasphorus heloisa, while the Bee Hummingbird is Mellisuga helenae from Cuba.
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