The cinnamon-sided hummingbird is a species of hummingbird in the "emeralds", tribe Trochilini of subfamily Trochilinae. It is endemic to the Mexican state of Oaxaca.
Region
Southern Mexico
Typical Environment
Occurs in the montane foothills and slopes of the Sierra Madre del Sur in Oaxaca. Prefers pine–oak and evergreen cloud forest edges, semi-open woodland, and secondary growth with abundant nectar sources. Commonly visits flowering shrubs, epiphyte-laden trees, and shade coffee plantations. Often forages along stream corridors and in breaks in the canopy.
Altitude Range
600–2000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Recently recognized as distinct from the Green-fronted Hummingbird complex, this species is confined to the mountains of Oaxaca, Mexico. Its warm cinnamon-colored flanks are the key field mark. It frequents forest edges and shaded coffee plantations where flowering shrubs are abundant. Habitat loss in montane forests could impact its small range.
Temperament
territorial and alert
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile hovering
Social Behavior
Typically solitary when foraging and males defend rich flower patches vigorously. Courtship involves display flights and chases near flowering shrubs. Nests are small cups of plant down and spider silk placed on horizontal limbs in sheltered spots.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives thin, high-pitched chips and rapidly delivered twitters. Males produce brief, buzzy trills during territorial encounters and display flights.
Plumage
Glossy green upperparts and throat with distinctly cinnamon-rufous sides and flanks; underparts otherwise whitish to pale gray. Tail dusky with pale or whitish corners, appearing slightly rounded. Feathers are sleek with a metallic sheen typical of emerald hummingbirds.
Diet
Feeds primarily on nectar from tubular flowers such as Salvia, Inga, and other montane shrubs and trees. Supplements its diet with small arthropods, hawking them in short sallies or gleaning from foliage for protein. Will visit cultivated and ornamental flowers, especially in shaded coffee farms.
Preferred Environment
Forages along forest edges, clearings, riparian corridors, and semi-open secondary growth. Frequently uses midstory and understory levels where blossoms are dense.
