The Mexican Sheartail
| Scientific name | Mayan name | Español | English |
|---|---|---|---|
| Doricha eliza | Yax Tzunuum | Tijereta Yucateca/Mexicano | The Mexican Sheartail |
This species is particularly special because it is Endemic to Mexico. It lives in a very narrow strip (only about 1 km wide) of coastal scrub and mangroves along the northern Yucatan. If you are in places like Río Lagartos or Celestún, you are in the heart of its primary habitat. It is a regional symbol for community lead conservation efforts.
The male is defined by high-contrast features and a specialized silhouette. Its throat possesses a brilliant, iridescent magenta-purple gorget. In flat light, it may appear dark or black, but it flashes a vivid metallic pink when angled toward the sun. Its tail is a very long, deeply forked tail. The black outer feathers are often held closed in a single spike while perched but spread into a "scissor" shape during flight or display. Its upperparts are a shimmering golden-green, contrasting with a clean white breast and a slightly buff-colored belly.
Gallery
