Mexican Violetear

Predominantly bright metallic green body with a striking, deep violet-blue ear patch extending down the sides of the neck. The tail is bright blue-green with a distinct dark subterminal band. Males and females look very similar, though females are slightly smaller and duller.

Brilliant green plumage, striking violet-blue ear patch, and a square-ish tail with a dark subterminal band.

Length: 3.8 to 4.8 inches (9.7 to 12.2 cm); Wingspan: approximately 6 to 7 inches; Weight: 4.8 to 5.6 grams.

A repetitive, metallic ticking or chipping call (tsip or chip), delivered in rapid series, especially when defending territory.

Nectar from flowering plants, supplemented by small insects and spiders caught in mid-air or plucked from foliage.

Humid and semi-humid montane forests, forest edges, clearings, and agricultural areas with flowering shrubs, typically at elevations between 1,500 and 3,000 meters.

Mostly resident, though some populations undergo altitudinal migrations, moving to lower elevations during the non-breeding season.

Constructs a small, cup-shaped nest out of plant fibers, moss, and spiderwebs, placed on a low, horizontal tree branch. The female lays two white eggs and raises the young independently.

Sparkling Violetear (Colibri coruscans), which has a more extensive violet patch extending over the crown; Lesser Violetear, which is smaller and separated by range.

Acts as an important pollinator for numerous flowering plants and trees in montane forests, aiding in plant reproduction and maintaining biodiversity.

Least Concern (Stable population trend)

Look for them visiting tubular flowers in mountain gardens, forest edges, or at hummingbird feeders. They can be quite aggressive and territorial around food sources.

Mexican Violetears are known for their loud, buzzing vocalizations and high-energy territorial displays, often driving away much larger birds from choice feeding territories.