The Black-crested Coquette (Lophornis helenae) is a small hummingbird native to South America. With an average body length of 7-8 cm and weight of 3-4 grams, it is one of the smallest hummingbird species in the world. This diminutive bird gets its name from the black crest feathers on the top of the male’s head, which can be raised and lowered. The female lacks this crest.
Range and Habitat
The black-crested coquette has a relatively restricted range in the Andean regions of Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia. Its habitat consists primarily of forest edges, second growth, scrub and gardens from 600 to 3000 meters above sea level. It prefers areas with plenty of flowering plants and some shrub cover.
Description
The adult male black-crested coquette has iridescent green upperparts and white underparts. As mentioned previously, it has a distinguishable black crest on its head which it can raise and lower. The face and throat are white, while the tail is black with white tips. The female lacks the crest and has more grayish-white underparts. Both sexes have a relatively short, straight black bill and white patches behind the eyes.
Feeding
Like all hummingbirds, the black-crested coquette feeds mainly on nectar from flowers. It uses its long, extendable tongue to lap up the nectar while hovering in front of the flowers. It also consumes small insects and spiders to obtain essential proteins and nutrients. The birds often feed at a rapid pace, visiting numerous flowers in quick succession. Some favorite food plants include fuchsias, salvias, verbenas and many varieties of tropical flowers.
Unique Hovering Ability
One of the black-crested coquette’s most remarkable characteristics is its unique ability to hover in place. The bird can beat its wings up to 70 times per second, allowing it to stay suspended and feed from flowers. This near-miraculous hovering is possible thanks to specialized adaptations like rotated arm joints, backward-facing feet, and feathers that are exceptionally strong yet lightweight. While other birds can hover for brief moments, the black-crested coquette is able to maintain hovering flight for extended periods as it accesses flower nectar.
Breeding and Nesting
The breeding season for the black-crested coquette varies across its range, typically coinciding with peak flower abundance. The male performs aerial displays, flying in repeated U-shaped patterns to impress females. After mating, the female builds a tiny cup-shaped nest out of plant fibers and spider webs, attached to a branch or trunk. She lays 2 tiny white eggs in the nest, and incubates them for 15-19 days. The chicks hatch with closed eyes and little to no feathers. They are fed regurgitated nectar and insects by the female and fledge in about 3 weeks.
Threats and Conservation Status
While still relatively common, the black-crested coquette’s populations are suspected to be in decline due to habitat loss from deforestation and conversion of land for agriculture. Climate change may also impact its high-altitude habitat. However, due to its large range, it is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List. Protecting areas of Andean cloud forest will be important for the long-term survival of the species.
Fun Facts
– The black-crested coquette has one of the fastest wingbeat rates of any bird, up to 70 beats per second! This allows its signature hovering ability.
– The species name “helenae” honors Princess Helen of Waldeck and Pyrmont, who was Duchess of Orleans in the 19th century.
– Males perform elaborate courtship displays, flying in repeated U-shaped patterns to attract females.
– To feed, the coquette’s long tongue extends nearly twice the length of its bill to lap up nectar.
– When incubating eggs, the female coquette sits very low in the nest with her tail sticking straight up.
– Like other hummingbirds, the coquette has uniquely structured feathers that make noise during certain flight maneuvers. This produces a humming, whirring, or chirping sound.
In summary, the black-crested coquette is a fascinating and diminutive hummingbird adapted to feed on nectar at a rapid pace. Its ability to hover sets it apart from most other bird species. While widespread, habitat loss in its specialized Andean habitat may cause populations to decline over time. Protecting mountain forests will be crucial for the survival of this unique pollinator. With its glittering green plumage, black head crest, and aerial agility, the black-crested coquette remains one of nature’s most captivating little birds.