The white-eared hummingbird is a species of hummingbird in the "emeralds", tribe Trochilini of subfamily Trochilinae. It is found from the southwestern U.S. to Nicaragua.
Region
Mesoamerican Highlands and Southwestern United States
Typical Environment
Occupies pine–oak and mixed montane forests, cloud forest edges, and shrubby clearings, often near riparian canyons. Frequently uses ecotones, second-growth, and gardens with abundant flowering shrubs. In the U.S., it occurs locally in southeastern Arizona, southwestern New Mexico, and west Texas, primarily in summer. It adapts well to natural and semi-open habitats where nectar sources are concentrated.
Altitude Range
1000–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A small, highland hummingbird, it is notable for its bold white ear stripe and red bill with a black tip. It fiercely defends flower patches and is an important pollinator of montane plants such as salvias and agaves. In the southwestern United States it appears mostly in summer, while many Mexican and Central American populations are resident or move seasonally upslope and downslope.
Temperament
territorial and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile hovering
Social Behavior
Generally solitary away from breeding, concentrating at rich nectar sources which individuals defend vigorously. Males do not assist with nesting; females build a small cup nest of plant down and spider silk on a horizontal branch or in a fork. Clutch is typically two eggs.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Gives thin, high-pitched chips and buzzy twitters around feeding sites. Males produce rapid, tinkling sequences during display and territorial chases.
Plumage
Iridescent green upperparts with a contrasting dark facial mask and a bold white post-ocular 'ear' stripe; underparts whitish to grayish with green spotting on the sides. Tail dark with slight bronzy or bluish sheen. Females are slightly duller with similar facial pattern.
Diet
Feeds primarily on nectar from a variety of tubular flowers, including salvias, penstemons, agaves, and native shrubs. Supplements nectar with small insects and spiders captured by hawking or gleaning for protein. Will visit hummingbird feeders when available.
Preferred Environment
Forages along forest edges, clearings, riparian canyons, and gardens where flowering plants are abundant. Often patrols a circuit of favored blooms and defends concentrated nectar sources.
