Bird
Violet-crowned Hummingbird
Leucolia violicepsAlso known as Northern Violet-crowned Hummingbird
Violet-crowned hummingbirds are easily recognized by their dazzling violet cap, snowy-white underparts, and bright coral-red bill with a dark tip. They frequent shady riparian corridors, arid canyon bottoms, and mountain foothill thickets, zipping rapidly between native flowers and hummingbird feeders. Aggressive defenders of rich nectar patches, these high-energy birds issue sharp, chatter-like calls as they chase rivals away.
PollinatorNectar FeederMigratory
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & preyFloral Nectar, Small Midges, Spiders
Predators
- Sharp-shinned Hawk
- Loggerhead Shrike
- Praying Mantis
ThreatsLoss of riparian habitat, climate-induced drought, and extreme heat waves
HabitatsRiparian woodlands, oak groves, desert canyon bottoms, and suburban gardens
Life span3–7 years
Classification
- FamilyTrochilidae
- SpeciesLeucolia violiceps
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
- Feeder Care: Hang nectar feeders in cool shade to offer clean energy during summer heat.
- Native Flora: Plant tubular desert flowers like penstemon and agaves to lure passing adults.
- Quiet Watching: Stand motionless near streamside blooms and listen for sharp vocal chirps.
Frequent Companion (c) Arturo Crespo Moctezuma, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
Co-occurring Species (c) Amado Demesa, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA), uploaded by Amado Demesa · cc-by-sa
Close Relative (c) Amado Demesa, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
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