The short-crested coquette is a Critically Endangered species of hummingbird in the "coquettes", tribe Lesbiini of subfamily Lesbiinae. It is endemic to a small area of Mexico.
Region
Southwestern Mexico
Typical Environment
Occurs in a highly localized area on the Pacific slope, using foothill and lower montane habitats. It favors edges of pine–oak and humid evergreen forest, clearings with abundant flowers, and shade-coffee plantations. Birds concentrate along streams, roadsides, and second growth where nectar sources are dense. Local movements likely follow flowering phenology within this restricted range.
Altitude Range
unknown
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This tiny hummingbird is among the rarest coquettes and is confined to a very small area of Mexico. It depends on seasonal blooms and often tracks flowering shrubs and trees within its limited range. Habitat loss and degradation have driven steep declines, leading to its Critically Endangered status. Sightings can be sporadic as individuals move locally following nectar availability.
Temperament
active and territorial
Flight Pattern
rapid wingbeats with agile hovering
Social Behavior
Usually solitary while foraging; males may defend small nectar patches and perform aerial displays. Nest is a tiny cup of plant down and spider silk placed on a slender horizontal branch, sometimes over a stream or clearing. Clutch size is typically two, and the female alone incubates and cares for the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives thin, high-pitched chips and twitters; vocalizations are often subtle compared to the prominent wing hum. Displaying males may add buzzy trills during short, darting flights.
