Mexican Hermit Phaethornis mexicanus

Spectacular large hummingbird of humid tropical lowlands and foothills; endemic to west Mexico. Favors shady forest understory and edges, especially with patches of Heliconia flowers. Males sit and sing tirelessly from perches in the understory while pumping their tail. When feeding, hovers briefly with long white tail streamers held nearly vertical and shoots off with an explosive squeak. Note the striped face, very long, arched bill, and rather drab plumage. No similar hummingbird species in its range.