description Lucifer Hummingbird Overview
The Lucifer Hummingbird (Calothorax lucifer) is a small bird species inhabiting the arid regions of the Chihuahuan Desert in Mexico and the southwestern United States, including west Texas and southern New Mexico. It is distinguished by its long, deeply forked tail and a vibrant, iridescent purple gorget on the males. Named after the Latin word for light-bearing, this hummingbird feeds on nectar from desert flowering plants and small insects. It prefers mountainous slopes and canyon habitats for breeding and foraging.
help Lucifer Hummingbird FAQ
How can I identify a male Lucifer Hummingbird?
The male has a vivid purple throat and a long, deeply forked tail. The species is Calothorax lucifer and belongs to the sheartail group of hummingbirds. [Cornell Lab species guide](https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Lucifer_Hummingbird/overview)
Where does the Lucifer Hummingbird live?
It is mainly a species of Mexico, but reaches extreme southern Arizona, New Mexico, and west Texas in the United States. It favors arid habitats in and around the Chihuahuan Desert. [Cornell Lab species guide](https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Lucifer_Hummingbird/overview)
What habitat and food does the Lucifer Hummingbird use?
Cornell lists scrub as its main habitat, nectar as its food, and shrubs as its nesting setting. Its range in the United States is concentrated in dry areas of Arizona, New Mexico, and west Texas. [Cornell Lab species guide](https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Lucifer_Hummingbird/overview)
What is unusual about Lucifer Hummingbird courtship?
Unlike many hummingbirds that display near feeding areas, the male performs his courtship display at the female's nest. The oldest known bird was a male recaptured in Texas at at least 7 years and 5 months old. [Cornell Lab life history](https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Lucifer_Hummingbird/lifehistory)
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