The purple-crowned plovercrest, or violet-crowned plovercrest, is a species of hummingbird in the "emeralds", tribe Trochilini of subfamily Trochilinae. It is found in Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay.
Region
Atlantic Forest of southern Brazil, eastern Paraguay, and Misiones, Argentina
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily in the Atlantic Forest and associated habitats, often at forest edges, secondary woodland, and shrubby clearings. It readily uses bamboo thickets, riverine vegetation, and flowering gardens near forest. The species prefers areas with abundant tubular flowers and perches for display. It can be locally numerous where nectar resources are concentrated. Fragmentation limits its continuity across the landscape.
Altitude Range
200–1500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A tiny hummingbird of the Atlantic Forest, the purple-crowned plovercrest is named for the male’s striking, spiky violet crest. It frequents forest edges, second growth, and gardens, where it aggressively defends nectar sources. Males perform conspicuous display flights and vocalizations from exposed perches. Habitat loss in the Atlantic Forest is the main threat, though the species remains locally common.
Stephanoxis loddigesii by A. Bertrand
Temperament
highly active and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile hovering
Social Behavior
Typically solitary while feeding, with males vigorously defending rich flower patches. Males display from exposed perches and may gather loosely in display areas, performing hovering shows. The nest is a tiny cup of plant fibers and spider silk placed on a horizontal branch, with two eggs commonly laid.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
High, buzzy trills and thin tinkling notes delivered in short, repeated sequences from a perch. Males intensify vocalizations during display, interspersing chips with rapid chatter.
