Hummingbirds of the Yucatán

While Mexico as a whole is home to roughly 58 to 60 species, the Yucatan’s unique geography (a flat limestone shelf with distinct scrub and tropical dry forests) supports a smaller, more specialized group. There are 11 species of hummingbirds that are regularly identified and considered resident or common migratory visitors.

Here, I have focused on the 5 species that are commonly observed in the Yucatán, and for which I have a personal affinity. These include:

Scientific name	Mayan name	Español	English
Amazilia rutila	Tzunuum	Chupaflor Canelo	The Cinnamon Hummingbird
Cynanthus canivetii	Yax Tzunuum	Chupaflor Esmeralda	Canivet's Emerald
Amazilia yucatanensis	Tzunuum	Chupaflor Yucateco	The Buff-Bellied Hummingbird
Doricha eliza	Tzunuum	Tijereta Yucateca/Mexicano	The Mexican Sheartail
Anthracothorax prevostii	Tzunuum	Mango Pechiverde	The Green-Breasted Mango