Mexican Hermit

The Mexican hermit (Phaethornis mexicanus) is a captivating species of hummingbird, endemic to the lush landscapes of Mexico. This avian jewel measures between 16 to 17 cm in length, displaying a dusky crown and a bronzy green nape that seamlessly transitions into similar upperparts. Its rump feathers are adorned with bronzy green and cinnamon edges, while its tail boasts a striking black with white-tipped feathers. The face is characterized by black cheeks, complemented by pale cinnamon stripes that elegantly trace behind the eye and below the cheek. The throat presents a mostly pale buff hue, and the underparts are a dusky brownish gray with a subtle cinnamon wash gracing the belly.

Identification Tips

To identify the Mexican hermit, look for its distinctive black cheeks and the pale cinnamon postocular stripe. The subspecies P. m. griseoventer is slightly paler, with a dull greenish crown, a whitish to pale buff throat stripe, and more white on the central tail feathers.

Habitat

The Mexican hermit thrives in the interior and edges of humid evergreen forests, Heliconia thickets, and ravines within semi-deciduous woodlands. It is a creature of elevation, found from sea level to about 2,000 meters.

Distribution

This species is found in two distinct areas along Mexico's Pacific coast. The nominate subspecies, P. m. mexicanus, is located to the southwest from western Guerrero to southeastern Oaxaca. The P. m. griseoventer subspecies is found further north, between Nayarit and Colima.

Behaviour

The Mexican hermit is believed to be a sedentary bird, not partaking in long migratory journeys.

Song & Calls

The P. m. griseoventer subspecies serenades the forest with a continuous series of single, metallic notes, reminiscent of 'chieh…chieh…chieh…'. Its call is a shrill, slurred, and relatively drawn-out 'skweih'. While the vocalizations of the nominate subspecies have not been documented, both are known to sing at leks of four to six males.

Breeding

Little is known about the breeding habits of the Mexican hermit. However, nests bearing eggs have been discovered in late May and early July.

Diet and Feeding

The Mexican hermit is a "trap-line" feeder, visiting a circuit of various flowering plants to sip nectar. It also supplements its diet with small arthropods.

Conservation Status

The IUCN has classified the Mexican hermit as Least Concern. The population is estimated to be at least 20,000 mature individuals, though it is suspected to be in decline. Presently, no immediate threats to its survival have been identified.