Rufous-crested Coquette
NameRufous-crested Coquette
Common NameRufous-crested Coquette
Scientific NameLophornis delattrei
FamilyTrochilidae
Wingspan (cm)11
Length (cm)6.7
Weight (g)2.7
Plumage DetailsMales boast a prominent, spiky rufous-orange crest and an iridescent emerald-green gorget. Their back is bronzy-green, and the underparts are buffy with distinctive rufous flanks and a rufous tail featuring a dark subterminal band. Females lack the crest and gorget, having a buffy throat and underparts.
Vocalization / CallGenerally a quiet species, it produces soft, high-pitched chips or squeaks, often heard during foraging or short flights.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in scattered populations across the Andes of South America, including parts of Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia.
Identifying FeaturesProminent spiky rufous-orange crest (males), Iridescent emerald-green gorget (males), Rufous tail with dark subterminal band, Small size, Buffy underparts with rufous flanks
Description
The Rufous-crested Coquette is a tiny, strikingly ornamented hummingbird, particularly the male with its vibrant crest and gorget. It is typically observed hovering gracefully while feeding on nectar from various flowering plants in its tropical habitat.
