White-eared Hummingbird facts for kids
Quick facts for kids White-eared Hummingbird |
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| Hylocharis leucotis | |
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | |
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| Genus: |
Basilinna
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| Species: |
H. leucotis
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| Binomial name | |
| Hylocharis leucotis Vieillot, 1818
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The White-eared Hummingbird (Basilinna leucotis) is a small, colorful bird. It is a type of hummingbird found in parts of North and Central America. These tiny birds are known for their fast wings and bright feathers.
This hummingbird is about 9 to 10 centimeters (around 3.5 to 4 inches) long. It weighs only about 3 to 4 grams. That's about the same weight as two paper clips!
Contents
What Does It Look Like?
White-eared Hummingbirds have special markings that help them stand out.
Colors and Markings
Adult White-eared Hummingbirds are mostly green on their upper bodies and chests. Their undertail feathers are white. The tail itself is dark and straight.
The most noticeable feature is a bright white stripe near their eyes. Both male and female birds have this stripe. However, it is much bolder and brighter on the male.
Male Hummingbird Features
Male White-eared Hummingbirds have a straight, very thin bill. It is mostly red with a black tip. Their throat shines with a "metallic turquoise green" color. The top of their head, called the crown, and their face are a mix of violet and black. These bright colors help them attract mates.
Where Do They Live?
White-eared Hummingbirds live in different habitats. They prefer forests and woodlands. They are often found in mountainous areas.
Habitat and Range
These hummingbirds live in parts of the southwestern United States, Mexico, and Central America. They often move to different areas depending on the season. This is because they follow where their favorite flowers are blooming.
What Do They Eat?
Like other hummingbirds, the White-eared Hummingbird mainly eats nectar. Nectar is a sweet liquid found in flowers.
Food Sources
They use their long, thin bills to reach deep into flowers. They also eat small insects and spiders. These tiny creatures provide important protein. Hummingbirds need a lot of energy to fly so fast.
Life Cycle
Hummingbirds have an interesting life cycle. It starts with eggs in a tiny nest.
Nests and Eggs
Female White-eared Hummingbirds build small, cup-shaped nests. They often use spiderwebs and plant material to make their nests strong. They usually lay two tiny white eggs.
Young Hummingbirds
The mother bird takes care of the eggs and the young chicks. The chicks grow very quickly. Soon, they are ready to leave the nest and find their own food.
Conservation Status
The White-eared Hummingbird is not currently in danger.
Least Concern Status
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists this species as "Least Concern." This means there are many of these hummingbirds in the wild. Their populations are stable.
Images for kids
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A White-eared Hummingbird perched on a branch.
See also
In Spanish: Colibrí orejiblanco para niños
