Plovercrest facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Plovercrest |
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| In São Paulo, Brazil | |
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Stephanoxis
Simon, 1897
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S. lalandi
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| Stephanoxis lalandi (Vieillot, 1818)
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The plovercrest (Stephanoxis lalandi) is a tiny, colorful hummingbird species. It's known for its unique crest of feathers on its head. These amazing birds live in parts of South America. You can find them in Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay.
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Where Plovercrests Live
Plovercrests prefer specific places to call home. Their habitats are usually moist forests. They like areas that are either subtropical or tropical. This means they live in places that are warm and often humid.
Mountain Forests
These hummingbirds are often found in montane forests. Montane means they live in forests on the sides of mountains. They enjoy the cooler, misty air found at higher elevations.
Changing Habitats
Sometimes, plovercrests can also be seen in areas where forests have been changed. This might be a forest that was once thick but is now more open. They adapt to these new conditions.
What Plovercrests Look Like
The plovercrest is a very pretty bird with distinct colors. It has a bright blue chest. Its back is a lovely green color. The sides of its body, called its flanks, are white. These colors help it blend in with its forest home.
Special Features
One of the most special things about the plovercrest is its crest. This is a small tuft of feathers on its head. It gives the bird its name, "plovercrest." The crest can look different depending on the light.
Hummingbird Facts
Hummingbirds are some of the smallest birds in the world. They are famous for their ability to hover in the air. They can also fly backward! Their wings beat incredibly fast. This creates a humming sound, which is how they got their name.
Diet and Nectar
Plovercrests, like other hummingbirds, mostly eat nectar. Nectar is a sweet liquid found in flowers. They use their long, thin beaks to reach deep into flowers. They also eat tiny insects for protein.
Fast Metabolism
Hummingbirds have a very fast metabolism. This means their bodies burn energy quickly. They need to eat almost constantly to stay alive. They visit many flowers throughout the day to get enough food.
See also
In Spanish: Stephanoxis para niños
