Hummingbirds are truly spectacular creatures. You can find many breathtaking species from this family on social media, with some so beautiful that it’s hard to believe they actually exist. Snowcap is one such stunning bird. It’s not a creature that came from a fairytale; it exists in the natural world.
No bigger than a bumblebee, this tiny, plump bird stands out from the crowd. The reason is clear: it wears a one-of-a-kind plumage in deep burgundy with dark purple hues, complemented by a shiny, snow-white cap.
They are so cute it’s almost unbelievable. Male and female Snowcap hummingbirds look quite similar, with the female having a snowy white underside and a short, straight beak. The upper parts are also a metallic green. Even the young birds share these traits.
The Snowcap hummingbird is native to Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and western Panama. They prefer to live in the canopy, along the edges of damp forests, and in nearby woodlands. Their primary diet consists of nectar from small flowers on vines, trees, and epiphytic plants. They hover and sip nectar up to 13 times per second. However, they also consume insects and spiders.
During the breeding season, both males and females can mate with up to seven different partners. After finding a mate, the female builds a nest on a small tree branch or vine. The nest is made from plant fibers and spider webs, shaped like a cup. She then lays two eggs, incubates them for about two weeks, and cares for the chicks until they have enough feathers to fledge.
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