Costa's Hummingbird
NameCosta's Hummingbird
Common NameCosta's Hummingbird
Scientific NameCalypte costae
FamilyTrochilidae
Wingspan (cm)11
Length (cm)8.5
Weight (g)3.2
Plumage DetailsMales feature a brilliant iridescent amethyst-purple crown and a long, flaring gorget. Their back is dull metallic green, and underparts are whitish with green flanks. Females are duller, green above and whitish below, sometimes with a few iridescent throat feathers.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a high-pitched, thin whistle, often a 'tseee' or a series of 'tew-tew-tew' notes, along with various chips and chattering sounds.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsdesert, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in the southwestern United States (southern California, southern Nevada, western Arizona) and Baja California, Mexico. Winters primarily in Baja California and western Mexico.
Identifying FeaturesIridescent amethyst-purple crown and flaring gorget (male), Small size, Long, slender bill, High-pitched whistle call
Description
This small hummingbird is known for the male's striking iridescent amethyst-purple crown and gorget. It is an agile flyer, often seen hovering to feed on nectar from desert flowers and catching small insects.
