The green-fronted hummingbird is a species of hummingbird in the "emeralds", tribe Trochilini of subfamily Trochilinae. It is found in Mexico and possibly Guatemala.
Region
Mexican Highlands
Typical Environment
Occurs in interior and Pacific-slope uplands of central and southern Mexico, favoring dry to semi-arid habitats. It uses thorn forest, scrub, and edges of pine–oak woodland, as well as riparian thickets, canyons, and semi-open farmland with hedgerows. The species readily visits flowering gardens and coffee agroforestry when nectar is abundant. Local elevational movements track peak blooming of key plants.
Altitude Range
800–2400 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Formerly placed in the genus Amazilia, the green-fronted hummingbird is now widely treated as Ramosomyia viridifrons. It is largely confined to the Mexican highlands, where it frequents dry forests, canyons, and semi-open woodlands. Males defend rich flower patches aggressively and will chase away larger birds. Some authorities have split the Oaxaca Hummingbird from this complex.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile hovering
Social Behavior
Typically forages alone but may gather loosely where flowers are dense. Males defend nectar resources vigorously and perform short chases and display flights. Nests are cup-shaped, built on horizontal branches or forks, and lined with plant down and spider silk.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are a mix of high, thin chips and rapid ticking notes, often given during aggressive encounters. Wing hum is audible at close range, and display flights include short buzzy trills.
Plumage
Compact emerald-type hummingbird with a bright green forehead and crown blending into bronze-green upperparts. Underparts are largely whitish to pale gray with green mottling on the sides and flanks. Tail shows rufous to cinnamon tones with a darker subterminal band. Bill is mostly red with a contrasting black tip.
Diet
Takes nectar from a variety of flowering shrubs and trees, including salvias, agaves, and other native blossoms. Supplements nectar with small insects and spiders captured by hawking or gleaning from foliage. Often returns repeatedly to rich flower patches and may exploit hummingbird feeders in towns.
Preferred Environment
Feeds along forest edges, riparian corridors, canyons, and semi-open woodland. Also uses gardens, hedgerows, and shade-coffee plantations where tubular flowers are abundant.
