Mexican Woodnymph
A species of Woodnymphs Scientific name : Eupherusa ridgwayi Genus : Woodnymphs
Mexican Woodnymph, A species of Woodnymphs
Botanical name: Eupherusa ridgwayi
Genus: Woodnymphs
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Michael Woodruff
Description
Mexican woodnymphs are small birds, generally 9-10 centimeters long. Females weigh around 3.5 grams and males weigh from 3.5 to 4.2 grams. Males have a straight black bill, mostly green body, a dull green chest, a blue-black forked tail, and an indigo crown. Females are similar, mostly green with darker green tail and wings, a light gray chest. They lack the characteristic indigo crown, instead have a white spot behind their eyes and green disks on the sides of their chest. One known vocalization consists of an irregular series of 2-4 quick notes. Their call has been described as a "liquid rattle".
Size
10 cm
Nest Placement
Tree
Feeding Habits
Mexican Woodnymph primarily feed on nectar from flowers like Rubiaceae and Zingiberaceae, as well as various epiphytes. They supplement their diet with arthropods, showcasing a blend of nectivorous and insectivorous habits.
Habitat
Humid forest, canyons and foothills at 250–1200 m, probably coffee plantations
Dite type
Nectivorous
General Info
Feeding Habits
Bird food type
Distribution Area
Mexican woodnymphs live exclusively in the northern mountains of western Mexico, with habitat in the states of Nayarit, Jalisco and Colima. They are not migratory and spend the whole year in their small range. They are the northernmost species of their genus. Although there is little known of the specific habitat requirements for Mexican woodnymphs, we are aware that they reside in humid forests, canyons and foothills at elevations of 250–1200 meters. They can be found at the forest and open woodland, and may inhabit some coffee plantations.
Species Status
Mexican woodnymphs are listed as vulnerable due to habitat loss. As evident from their restricted range, they are dependent on the forest health of western Mexico, where deforestation is threatening the habitat. Unfortunately, since there is little information on their habitat needs and natural history, there is insufficient data on how to protect this species.
Photo By Michael Woodruff
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Birds Order
Swifts and hummingbirds Family
Hummingbirds Genus
Woodnymphs Species
Mexican Woodnymph