Snowcap
NameSnowcap
Common NameSnowcap
Scientific NameMicrochera albocoronata
FamilyTrochilidae
Wingspan (cm)10.5
Length (cm)6.5
Weight (g)2.2
Plumage DetailsMales have a striking pure white crown, iridescent rufous-chestnut body, dark wings, and a white tail with dark tips on the outer feathers. Females are duller, mostly green above with a white post-ocular spot, and whitish underparts with rufous flanks.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations are typically soft, high-pitched chips or squeaks, often given while foraging or in flight.
Primary Dietnectarivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the humid lowlands and foothills of Central America, from eastern Honduras south through Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and western Panama.
Identifying FeaturesBrilliant white crown (males), Small size, Rufous-chestnut body (males), White tail with dark tips (males), Straight, short black bill
Description
The Snowcap is a tiny, distinctive hummingbird, easily recognized by the male's brilliant white crown contrasting with its rich rufous-chestnut body. They are agile fliers, primarily feeding on nectar from small flowers in the understory of humid forests.
