The Antillean crested hummingbird is a species of hummingbird in the family Trochilidae. Its range extends from eastern Puerto Rico throughout the Lesser Antilles; it has also been recorded as a vagrant in Florida, USA.
Region
Caribbean (eastern Puerto Rico and the Lesser Antilles)
Typical Environment
Found on many islands from eastern Puerto Rico south through the Lesser Antilles. It frequents coastal scrub, dry and moist second-growth, forest edges, gardens, and plantations. The species readily uses ornamental flowering plants in towns and villages. It is generally absent from dense interior forest but common in open, shrubby habitats and along mangrove margins.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This tiny hummingbird is named for the male’s distinctive, erectile crest, which flashes iridescent colors during displays. It is notably bold and territorial at flowering shrubs, often chasing much larger birds. The species adapts well to human-altered landscapes and is a rare vagrant to Florida.
Nest and eggs MHNT
Feeding at a flower in Dominica
Temperament
territorial and bold
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; agile hoverer
Social Behavior
Mostly solitary outside of breeding, with males defending rich nectar sources vigorously. Courtship involves hovering displays and crest-flaring. The female builds a small cup nest of plant down and spider silk and incubates two eggs without male assistance.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are high, thin chips and rapid tsee-tsee notes, often given while foraging. Wing hum is prominent at close range, and males add sharp chase calls during territorial pursuits.
Plumage
Iridescent green upperparts with darker, dusky gray underparts; males show a prominent, spiky crest and more contrasting tones, females plainer with reduced crest. Feathers can appear bronzy or emerald depending on light.
Diet
Primarily consumes nectar from a variety of native and ornamental flowers, probing repeatedly while hovering. Also takes small insects and spiders for protein, especially during breeding. Occasionally hawks tiny insects in short sallies or gleans them from foliage.
Preferred Environment
Feeds at flowering shrubs and trees along edges, gardens, and scrubby openings. Often uses low to mid-level blossoms, including hedgerows and cultivated plants in villages.
