Lophornis ornatus (Boddaert, 1783)

Scientific Name and Basic Measurements

The tufted coquette, scientifically named Lophornis ornatus (Boddaert, 1783), measures 6.6 centimetres (2.6 in) long and weighs 2.3 grams (0.081 oz). It has a short, straight black-tipped red bill.

Male Plumage (Head and Back)

The male of the species has a rufous head crest and a coppery green back with a prominent whitish rump band that is easily visible in flight. Its forehead and underparts are green, and black-spotted rufous plumes extend outward from the sides of its neck.

Male Tail Coloration

The male’s tail is golden rufous.

Female Plumage (Missing Male Features)

The female does not have the male’s crest and neck plumes.

Female Plumage (Upper Body)

She has green upper (dorsal) body parts, except for a whitish band on the tail.

Female Plumage (Underparts)

Her under (ventral) body parts are rufous, turning much paler on the belly.

Female Tail Details

Her tail is mostly bronze green, with a dusky band and whitish tips on the individual feathers.

Immature Male Appearance

Immature males look similar to females, but have whitish throats marked with fine dark spots.

Nesting and Reproduction

The female tufted coquette lays two eggs in a small cup-shaped nest built from plant down, which is positioned on a branch.

Species Temperament

Tufted coquettes are described as tame and easy to approach.

Feeding Call

When feeding, this species produces a light chik call.

Diet

The birds feed on nectar collected from a variety of flowers, as well as some small invertebrates.

Flight Appearance

Their small size and steady flight mean they often look like a large bee as they move from flower to flower.