The plain-capped starthroat is a species of hummingbird in the "mountain gems", tribe Lampornithini in subfamily Trochilinae. It is found from Mexico to Costa Rica.
Region
Mesoamerica
Typical Environment
Occurs from western and southern Mexico south through Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, and Nicaragua to northwestern Costa Rica. Prefers arid to semi-arid scrub, tropical dry forest, thorn forest, and second-growth, as well as riparian corridors and edges. Frequently visits gardens, shade coffee, and flowering hedgerows in suitable regions. Typically uses perches with good vantage for defending flowering plants. It is generally local but can be fairly common where habitat and nectar sources are abundant.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A large hummingbird of dry and semi-open habitats, the plain-capped starthroat is named for the subtle star-like pattern on its pale throat. It favors flowering trees and shrubs and often returns to reliable nectar sources, defending them vigorously. Its long, straight bill suits probing deep tubular blossoms, and it supplements nectar with small insects for protein.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
swift hovering with short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically forages alone and aggressively defends rich nectar sources from other hummingbirds. Courtship involves aerial chases and display flights from exposed perches. Nests are small cups of plant fibers and spider silk placed on horizontal branches, with two eggs per clutch and the female handling incubation and care.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Vocalizations are thin, high-pitched chips and tsit notes, often given from a prominent perch. During displays it may add buzzy trills and rapid chattering. Wing hum is audible at close range while hovering at flowers.
Plumage
Bronzy-green upperparts with a plain brownish cap, pale gray underparts, and a subtly patterned throat that can show a star-like effect around a darker center. Tail is dark with paler tips; wings show a slight rufous panel in good light. Overall appearance is clean and pale below compared to many hummingbirds.
Diet
Takes nectar from a variety of flowering trees, shrubs, and vines, including tubular blossoms. Also hawks small insects and spiders in mid-air or gleans them from foliage to meet protein needs. Will repeatedly visit and defend productive flowering patches, especially during peak blooms.
Preferred Environment
Edges of dry forest and thorn scrub, riparian zones with flowering trees, and semi-open agricultural mosaics like shade coffee and hedgerows. Readily visits gardens where suitable nectar plants are present.
