Rivoli's Hummingbird

Overview

Rivoli's Hummingbird, formerly lumped with a related species under the name Magnificent Hummingbird, is a large, robust hummingbird of montane pine-oak and cloud forest habitats from the southwestern United States south through Mexico and Central America. Its size alone helps set it apart from most other hummingbirds sharing its range.

Males appear dark and unremarkable in shade, but in good light reveal an intensely violet crown and a shimmering green gorget, a combination that makes them one of the most dramatic hummingbirds to observe when lighting conditions cooperate.

Feather ID Notes

The crown feathers of adult males show an intense violet iridescence distinct from the green gorget below, a two-toned iridescent pattern that is diagnostic among North American hummingbirds. Body feathers otherwise appear blackish-green and can look nearly black without direct light hitting the iridescent structures.

• Crown feathers: violet, sharply set off from the throat color
• Gorget feathers: emerald green, broad and rounded
• Body feathers: dark blackish-green overall
• Size: notably larger and bulkier than most sympatric hummingbirds Females lack the iridescent crown and gorget, appearing dusky green above and pale grayish below with faint spotting on the throat.

Plumage Details

Adult males display the diagnostic violet crown and green gorget against an otherwise dark body. Females are considerably plainer, with dull green upperparts, grayish underparts, and light throat speckling rather than solid iridescence. Immatures resemble females, with young males slowly developing gorget and crown color as they mature. Plumage is stable year-round with a single annual molt.

Habitat & Range

This species occupies montane pine-oak woodland, cloud forest, and forest edge, generally at moderate to high elevations, ranging from the mountains of the southwestern United States (notably in "sky island" ranges) south through Mexico and Central America. Northern populations are migratory, withdrawing south in winter, while more southerly populations tend to be resident.

Behavior & Field Notes

Rivoli's Hummingbirds forage for nectar at a variety of montane wildflowers and shrubs and also take small insects in flight, often perching prominently between foraging bouts. Males can be territorial at rich nectar sources, including feeders, sometimes dominating smaller hummingbird species. Nests are compact cups built on a horizontal branch, often over a stream or ravine. Vocalizations include sharp, high-pitched chip notes.