Short-crested Coquette
Lophornis brachylophus
Order: Apodiformes / Family: Trochilidae
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About the Short-crested Coquette
The Short-crested Coquette, or Lophornis brachylophus, is an enchanting member of the Trochilidae family, celebrated for its vibrant iridescence and diminutive stature. This species, endemic to specific regions of South America, primarily thrives in the lush tropical forests of the western Amazon Basin. The coquette plays a critical role in pollination, as its feeding habits contribute significantly to the proliferation of various native plant species. Its ecological role extends beyond pollination, serving as a vital prey item for larger predators, thus maintaining the balance within its ecosystem. The bird’s presence can indicate a healthy, biodiverse habitat, and as such, it acts as a bioindicator for conservationists. Seasonally, the Short-crested Coquette engages in altitudinal migrations, which are less about distance and more about moving between different elevations to access resources. During the breeding season, the coquette exhibits increased territorial behavior, with males actively defending their feeding territories. The bird's seasonal plumage changes, albeit subtle, also mark the breeding period, with males displaying more pronounced ornamental feathers. Despite its small size, the Short-crested Coquette is a vibrant participant in its ecosystem, contributing to the genetic diversity of the flora and serving as an integral part of its avian community.
The Short-crested Coquette belongs to the family Trochilidae, within the order Apodiformes. These birds typically live average 3-5 years; max recorded 9 years.
How to Identify a Short-crested Coquette
Identifying the Short-crested Coquette involves noting its striking iridescent plumage and compact size, typically ranging between 7 and 8 centimeters in length. The adult male boasts a resplendent green body with a short, distinctive crest, for which it is named. The throat shimmers with a brilliant orange hue, transitioning to a speckled white-banded chest. Females, slightly more subdued, exhibit a green upper body with a whiter underbelly and lack the ornate throat patch. Juvenile coquettes resemble females but may appear less vibrant. In flight, the Short-crested Coquette's rapid wingbeats create a blur, while its hovering and darting flight pattern can distinguish it from other hummingbirds. When perched, its posture is upright, often on slender branches where its small size may seem deceptive. Careful observation is required to differentiate it from similar species such as the Long-crested Coquette, which has a more pronounced crest and differing geographical range.
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Short-crested Coquette Habitat and Range
Preferred Habitat
The Short-crested Coquette inhabits tropical and subtropical forests, predominantly found in the understory and edges of humid lowland forests. It thrives at elevations ranging from 200 to 1200 meters. These birds prefer environments rich with flowering plants, which provide both nectar and insect prey. Although primarily forest dwellers, coquettes can occasionally be spotted in more open woodland areas and forest clearings. During different seasons, they may venture into secondary forests or plantations if food sources are abundant. Urban presence is rare, as they favor the seclusion and resources found in less disturbed habitats.
Geographic Range
The Short-crested Coquette's range is confined to the western Amazon Basin, with sightings in countries such as Peru and Ecuador. The species does not undertake long-distance migrations but engages in local altitudinal movements to exploit seasonal blooms and insect populations. The bird is most densely populated in areas where forest cover is intact, particularly within protected reserves and national parks. These hotspots provide the essential resources and conditions for breeding and feeding. While generally not considered migratory, these altitudinal shifts are vital for its survival during different times of the year.
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What Does the Short-crested Coquette Eat?
Primarily nectarivorous, the Short-crested Coquette relies on a diverse array of flowering plants. It favors tubular flowers such as those of the Heliconia and Bromeliad families, which complement its slender bill. The bird supplements its diet with small insects and spiders, providing necessary proteins. Foraging is an active process, with the coquette hovering adeptly to extract nectar while often defending its chosen feeding areas from rivals. Seasonal variations in flower availability can shift the bird's diet to focus more heavily on available insects, especially during non-blooming periods. Feeding occurs throughout the day, with peak activity during the cooler morning and late afternoon hours.
Want to attract Short-crested Coquettes to your yard? See our recommended feeders and seed types for the best results.
Short-crested Coquette Behavior and Social Structure
The Short-crested Coquette exhibits a solitary lifestyle, particularly outside of the breeding season. Males are territorial, often engaging in aggressive displays to defend their feeding territories from other males. These displays include rapid chases and vocalizations that serve as both deterrent and communication. During courtship, males perform aerial displays to attract females, showcasing their vibrant plumage and agility. The species is generally non-flocking but may congregate loosely around abundant food sources. In response to predators, the coquette relies on its speed and agility, often retreating into dense foliage. Daily activity peaks at dawn and dusk, aligning with optimal foraging times.
Short-crested Coquette Nesting and Reproduction
Nesting for the Short-crested Coquette involves constructing a small, cup-shaped nest using plant down, spider silk, and lichens, camouflaged to blend with the surrounding foliage. Nests are typically located on slender horizontal branches, usually two to five meters above the ground. The female is solely responsible for nest construction, incubation, and chick rearing. Clutch size is generally two eggs, with an incubation period of 14 to 16 days. After hatching, chicks fledge approximately 20 to 22 days later. The coquette may raise two broods per year, depending on environmental conditions and food availability.
Short-crested Coquette Sounds and Vocalizations
The Short-crested Coquette's vocal repertoire includes a series of high-pitched, rapid notes that combine into a soft, melodious warble. These vocalizations serve multiple purposes, from mating calls to territory defense. Males often emit these songs during courtship displays. The alarm call, a sharp, repetitive chip, signals the presence of potential threats. While not prominent in dawn chorus behavior, the coquette's calls are more frequent during periods of heightened activity, often blending with the ambient sounds of its forest habitat.
Interesting Facts About the Short-crested Coquette
- 1The Short-crested Coquette can beat its wings up to 70 times per second, enabling its characteristic hover.
- 2Despite its tiny size, the Short-crested Coquette's heart beats at an astonishing rate of over 1200 beats per minute.
- 3Males of the species flaunt a characteristic iridescent crest, which is used during mating displays to attract females.
- 4The bird's name, 'coquette,' derives from its flirtatious flight patterns and dazzling plumage.
- 5This species plays a critical role in the pollination of over 20 different plant species within its habitat.
- 6The Short-crested Coquette is one of the few hummingbirds that exhibit altitudinal migration rather than long-distance travel.
- 7Their nests, composed of plant down and spider silk, are marvels of avian architecture, blending seamlessly with the environment.
Short-crested Coquette Conservation Status
Currently, the Short-crested Coquette holds a status of Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Despite its stable population trend, habitat destruction due to deforestation poses a significant threat. Conservation efforts focus on habitat preservation and protecting critical breeding areas. Historical population data suggest that while the coquette's numbers have remained relatively stable, ongoing environmental pressures necessitate careful monitoring to prevent future declines. Protected areas within its range serve as vital refuges for maintaining population stability.
Attracting Short-crested Coquettes to Your Feeder
The Short-crested Coquette is a regular visitor to backyard bird feeders across its range. At the Eye On The Fly feeding station, we observe Short-crested Coquettes regularly and capture footage with our feeder cameras.
