Black-crested Coquette

The Black-crested Coquette (Lophornis helenae) is a tiny, insectlike hummingbird of humid tropical forest and edge in foothills and lowlands; infrequently seen. Feeds quietly at all levels in small flowers where could easily be passed off as a big moth or bumblebee (and vice versa). Male often perches on exposed thin twigs. Feeding flight notably slow and beelike, with tail held cocked to show off bold white rump band. Male has long wispy crest of black feathers and bright red bill. Female has boldly spotted underparts and white rump band.