description Rufous-crested coquette Overview
The rufous-crested coquette is a small hummingbird in the genus Lophornis, distributed from southern Central America into western and northern South America. Adult males are distinguished by an elongated rufous crest and ornamental green-tipped cheek feathers, while females lack the same elaborate head plumage. It inhabits forest edges, clearings, plantations, and other flowering habitats, where it feeds on nectar and also captures small arthropods.
help Rufous-crested coquette FAQ
What distinctive feature gives the rufous-crested coquette its name?
The male rufous-crested coquette is famous for its stunning, elongated, fiery orange-rufous crest that sits atop its head. This tiny hummingbird also features a striking iridescent green throat patch that contrasts vividly with its crest.
Who first scientifically described the rufous-crested coquette?
The species was officially described and named by the French naturalist René Lesson in 1839. Lesson was a prominent ornithologist known for his extensive work classifying hummingbirds from South America.
What is the geographic range of the rufous-crested coquette?
This species is primarily found in the tropical regions of Central and South America, extending from Costa Rica and Panama southward to Bolivia. It favors the edges of humid forests and semi-open woodland areas.
How does the rufous-crested coquette behave compared to other hummingbirds?
As a member of the Lophornis genus, it is a remarkably tiny, fairy-like bird that behaves much like a large bee. Males are known to vigorously defend tiny, localized feeding territories against other hummingbirds and flying insects.
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