Antillean Crested Hummingbird
NameAntillean Crested Hummingbird
Common NameAntillean Crested Hummingbird
Scientific NameOrthorhyncus cristatus
FamilyTrochilidae
Wingspan (cm)11
Length (cm)8.5
Weight (g)3.5
Plumage DetailsMales have a brilliant iridescent green to blue-green crest, dark brown upperparts with green iridescence, iridescent green flanks, and a dark belly. Females are duller, lacking the prominent crest, with grayish-white underparts.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include high-pitched 'tsip' or 'tseet' notes, often given while hovering or in flight.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound throughout the Lesser Antilles, including islands such as Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, Anguilla, St. Martin, Guadeloupe, Dominica, Martinique, St. Lucia, St. Vincent, Barbados, and Grenada.
Identifying FeaturesProminent iridescent crest (males), Small size, Long, straight, slender bill, Iridescent green plumage, Rapid wing beats
Description
This tiny hummingbird is distinguished by its prominent, iridescent crest, particularly striking in males. It is known for its rapid, darting flight as it feeds on nectar and small insects in the Lesser Antilles.
