The white-tailed hummingbird is a Near Threatened species of hummingbird in the "emeralds", tribe Trochilini of subfamily Trochilinae. It is endemic to southwestern Mexico.
Region
Southwestern Mexico
Typical Environment
It inhabits foothill and lower montane slopes of the Sierra Madre del Sur in Guerrero and western Oaxaca. The species favors semi-deciduous and evergreen tropical forest, humid ravines, and shade coffee plantations rich in flowering shrubs and epiphytes. It is frequently found along forest edges, second growth, and streamside thickets. Foraging occurs from the midstory to the canopy, with short sallies to catch tiny insects. The distribution is patchy, tracking areas with abundant nectar resources.
Altitude Range
600–1800 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This small hummingbird is confined to the Sierra Madre del Sur of southwestern Mexico and is closely associated with shaded forest and traditional shade-grown coffee. Males show a strikingly white tail that flashes during territorial chases. A warm rufous panel in the wings is typical of its genus. Conserving flowering forest edges and shade coffee can benefit this species.
Temperament
territorial and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile hovering
Social Behavior
Usually solitary when foraging and strongly defends rich nectar sources against other hummingbirds. Courtship involves chases and visual tail displays. The small cup nest is built from plant down and spider silk on horizontal branches, typically a few meters above ground.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are soft, high-pitched chips and thin twitters given from perches and during chases. The wing hum is noticeable at close range, and males may add buzzy trills in display flights.
