The beautiful sheartail (Calothorax pulcher) is a captivating species of hummingbird found in the arid regions of southern-central Mexico. It belongs to the Mellisugini tribe within the Trochilinae subfamily.
With its distinctive features and intriguing behaviors, this hummingbird species has fascinated researchers and bird enthusiasts alike.
Measuring between 7.7 and 9 cm (3.0 to 3.5 in) in length and weighing around 2.2 to 3 g (0.078 to 0.11 oz), the beautiful sheartail exhibits sexual dimorphism.
Males boast metallic bronze-green upperparts, a white stripe behind the eye, and a vibrant magenta-purple gorget. Their elongated rear feathers add to their allure.
Females, on the other hand, have duller bronze-green upperparts, pale grayish-buff underparts with cinnamon-buff flanks, and a shorter rounded tail.
This species thrives in diverse habitats, including arid and semi-arid scrublands, semi-open areas with trees and shrubs, and gallery forests, primarily in interior valleys. Elevationally, it can be found between 1,000 and 2,200 m (3,300 and 7,200 ft).
The beautiful sheartail primarily forages near the ground but can feed at various vegetation heights. It relies on nectar from a wide range of plants, although specific details are limited.
This hummingbird's close relative, the Lucifer hummingbird, fiercely defends flower patches. Additionally, the beautiful sheartail catches small insects by hawking from a perch.
Male beautiful sheartails engage in captivating courtship displays, involving rocking motions and diving flights in front of the female.
The breeding season typically spans from May to November. Nests are constructed as cups made from the fine plant down, adorned with pappi on the outside and secured to branches using spiderwebs.
Clutches usually consist of two eggs. Despite ongoing research, further information about the species' breeding phenology remains scarce.
The beautiful sheartail occupies a relatively large range. Its population trend appears stable, with no significant decrease observed in recent years.
Continued efforts in monitoring and conserving the species are essential to ensure its long-term survival.
The Lucifer hummingbird, closely resembling the beautiful sheartail, is found to the north and is often difficult to distinguish from the beautiful sheartail in the field.
One distinguishing feature is the pointed outer tail feathers of the male Lucifer hummingbird compared to the blunt tips found in the beautiful sheartail.
The beautiful sheartail, a magnificent hummingbird species endemic to Mexico, thrives in the arid landscapes of the region. Its vibrant colors, unique courtship displays, and fascinating feeding behaviors make it a remarkable and treasured part of Mexico's biodiversity.
