Hummingbirds are beloved creatures across many cultures, but they hold a special place in Mexican culture. Their tiny flitting forms and energetic personalities have inspired many Mexican names and myths. But what exactly do Mexicans call these tiny birds?
The Many Mexican Names for Hummingbirds
There are numerous words Mexicans use to refer to hummingbirds. The diversity of terms reflects the variety of species found in Mexico and the rich Native American linguistic heritage. Here are some of the most common Mexican names for hummingbirds:
- Chupamirto – This name translates to “nectar sucker” or “flower sucker” in English. It describes the hummingbird’s habit of drinking nectar from flowers.
- Tenten – An onomatopoeic name imitating the humming sound the birds make with their rapidly beating wings. It is most commonly used in Central Mexico.
- Picaflores – Literally “flower pickers” in Spanish. A reference to the hummingbird’s constant search for nectar-filled blossoms.
- Joya Alada/Joya Voladora – “Winged jewel” or “flying jewel” in Spanish. A nod to the hummingbird’s vibrant, shimmering plumage.
- Pájaro Mosca – “Bird fly” in Spanish. Highlights the hummingbird’s ability to hover in midair much like an insect.
- Chica – “Girl” in Spanish. May refer to the hummingbird’s small size and delicate appearance.
- Picaflor – Another Spanish term meaning “flower picker.” Used in parts of Mexico influenced by Spain.
There are over 300 species of hummingbirds in the Americas, 57 of which are native to Mexico. So Mexicans have coined descriptive names for the most prominent hummingbirds in their local ecosystems. For example, the Blue-throated Hummingbird is known as a zafiro garganta azul (“blue throat sapphire”) in Mexico.
Origins of Mexican Hummingbird Names
The roots of many Mexican hummingbird names can be traced back to the rich indigenous languages of Mexico. Terms like chupamirto and tenten have origins in Nahuatl, the language of the Aztec empire that is still spoken by over 1.5 million people today.
Nahuatl speakers applied descriptive names to the hummingbirds they observed in the Valley of Mexico and surrounding highlands. These included:
- Huitzitzil – Onomatopoeic name imitating the bird’s distinctive call.
- Tlatōtōtzin – A royal-sounding name meaning “the honored piping one” in Nahuatl.
- Teōtlacāmitl – “Divine arrow”, comparing the hummingbird’s slender shape to an arrow shaft.
The Spanish names chupamirto, chuparrosa, and picaflor emerged later during the colonial period. Spanish settlers and missionaries adapted indigenous terms to their language. “Chuparrosa” was directly inspired by Nahuatl “sīwameyālli”, meaning “rose sucker”.
So Mexico’s colorful colloquial hummingbird names reveal intertwining Indigenous, Spanish, and natural history influences.
Hummingbirds in Aztec Culture and Mythology
Hummingbirds held symbolic significance for the pre-Columbian cultures of Mexico. These tiny, captivating creatures inspired Aztec legends and decorative motifs.
The god Huitzilopochtli, patron of the Mexica (Aztec) people, was often depicted as a hummingbird or wearing hummingbird feathers. His name Huitzilopochtli meant “Blue Hummingbird on the Left” or “Blue Hummingbird from the South.” The energetic, darting hummingbird represented the god’s warrior spirit.
According to Aztec cosmology, fallen warriors who died honorably in battle transformed into hummingbirds after death. Their valiant spirits lived on as their namesake birds.
The Aztecs also used iridescent hummingbird feathers to decorate royal clothing and headdresses. Skilled featherworkers crafted mosaic like designs by layering delicate hummingbird plumes.
Hummingbird imagery likewise decorated Aztec temples, statues, pottery, and jewelry. These motifs celebrated the vigor and vibrancy of the hummingbird.
The Hummingbird in the Aztec Creation Story
One Aztec myth featured the hummingbird in the story of creation:
When the world was first created, it remained in darkness. The gods gathered to discuss how to bring light to the world. Proud Huitzilopochtli volunteered, declaring that he would become the sun and illuminate the world. However, the other gods thought he was too young and brash.
Ancient god Tecciztecatl offered to become the sun instead. But when he tried to leap into the sky, he lost heart and did not rise high enough. Humble Nanahuatzin, covered in sores, sacrificed himself courageously to become the new sun.
As Nanahuatzin blazed into the sky as the new sun god, the brave Huitzilopochtli followed after in the form of a blue hummingbird. He became the azure companion to the sun, representing the moon, stars, and comets.
This story illustrated the Aztec belief that Nanahuatzin’s self-sacrifice brought light to the world, while ambitious Huitzilopochtli found another path to greatness.
The Enduring Mystique of Mexico’s Colibri
Mexico is home to the world’s smallest hummingbird, the aptly named Bee Hummingbird. Endemic to Cuba, this tiny bird measures just 2 inches long and weighs 2-3 grams. The Aztecs would have marveled at the Bee Hummingbird’s miniature wings propelling its vibrant, ruby throat.
Hummingbirds continue to captivate Mexicans and travelers from around the world. The Resplendent Quetzal, one of the most exquisite birds on Earth, draws avid birdwatchers to Chiapas’s cloud forests. Its iridescent emerald and crimson plumage once adorned Aztec royalty.
Wherever hummingbirds dart through gardens, forest understories, or mountainside blooms in Mexico, they bring flashes of fascination and magic. The melodious names Mexicans have bestowed upon these zippy pollinators reflect an enduring appreciation for their beauty.
Hummingbird Conservation in Mexico
While hummingbirds hold a special place in Mexico’s culture, many species now face concerning population declines. Habitat loss, pesticides, climate change, and other threats jeopardize these captivating creatures. Fortunately, conservation initiatives across Mexico aim to safeguard hummingbirds.
Threats to Hummingbirds
Major threats to hummingbird populations in Mexico include:
- Urban expansion destroying forests and flower-rich meadows
- Agricultural intensification reducing flowering plants and insect prey
- Pesticides accumulating in nectar and negatively impacting health
- Invasive species outcompeting native nectar plants
- Climate change shifting flowering seasons and ranges
Deforestation in particular has substantially reduced habitat for canopy-dwelling hummingbirds like the Long-tailed Sabrewing. Meanwhile, pesticides from farms may be poisoning hummingbirds or their invertebrate food sources.
Conservation Strategies
Some key strategies used in Mexico to protect hummingbirds include:
- Designating protected reserves with intact humid forests and meadows
- Launching hummingbird-friendly garden initiatives in cities
- Educating the public on reducing pesticide use
- Monitoring hummingbird populations and health
- Promoting ecotourism focused on hummingbird observation
Non-profit groups like the Asociación Ecológica de San Miguel de Allende have established urban hummingbird sanctuaries. They plant native flowers and provide clean water sources to attract these pollinators.
Reserves like El Triunfo Biosphere Reserve in Chiapas protect cloud forest habitat needed by rare hummingbirds like the Garnet-throated Hummingbird. Careful tourism centered on hummingbird viewing raises awareness of conservation needs.
Spotting Hummingbirds in Mexico
Mexico hosts incredible diversity when it comes to hummingbirds. Visitors to the country can often glimpse these energetic pollinators visiting backyard feeders, flowering trees, mountain meadows, and other habitats.
Here are some top places to spot hummingbirds on a trip to Mexico:
| Location | Notable Hummingbird Species |
|---|---|
| Veracruz | Emerald-chinned Hummingbird, Rufous-crested Coquette, Canivet’s Emerald |
| Chiapas | Garnet-throated Hummingbird, Amethyst-throated Hummingbird, White-crested Coquette |
| Oaxaca | Berylline Hummingbird, Violet-crowned Hummingbird |
| Yucatan Peninsula | Buff-bellied Hummingbird, Canivet’s Emerald |
| Baja California | Xantus’s Hummingbird, Costa’s Hummingbird |
Botanical gardens and nature reserves across the country also attract concentrations of hummingbirds to their flowering plants. Some top spots include:
- La Pera Garden in Veracruz
- El Edén Ecological Reserve in Quintana Roo
- Cumbres de Monterrey National Park in Nuevo León
- Jardín Botánico El Charco del Ingenio in San Miguel de Allende
Visiting hummingbird hotspots in Mexico at the peak of wildflower blooming seasons maximizes sighting opportunities. Bright native flowers like red salvia, pineapple sage, and agave bloom provide nectar feasts.
Fascinating Hummingbird Behaviors to Watch for in Mexico
Hummingbirds display remarkable behaviors perfectly adapted to their high-energy lifestyles. Watching them in action is part of what makes them so intriguing. Here are some fascinating hummingbird behaviors you may observe during your Mexico travels:
Aerial Dogfights
Hummingbirds are highly territorial and aggressively defend their nectar sources. You may witness aerial battles between males as they dive, chase, and even peck each other. The magnificent spikes on beaks of species like the Sword-billed Hummingbird aid in these fights.
Courtship Displays
Male hummingbirds perform dramatic courtship rituals to attract females. Watch for males rapidly climbing then diving in U-shapes or flying in pendulum arcs to impress potential mates.
Buzz Pollination
Some flowers like certain Solanum species require “buzz pollination” – rapid wing vibrations to release pollen. Hummingbirds expertly perform this maneuver as they feed.
Licking
Hummingbirds have tiny hair-like feathers on their tongues that soak up nectar. You may notice hummingbirds sticking their tongue in and out rapidly when foraging. This allows them to lap up nectar.
Sunning
On cool mornings, hummingbirds will perch facing the sun and spread their wings to absorb heat. Watch for hummingbirds “sunbathing” in this manner.
Attracting Hummingbirds to Your Mexican Garden
If you want to get an up close look at Mexico’s magical hummingbirds, consider landscaping to attract them. Here are some tips for designing a garden that will draw in hummingbirds:
Plant Native Nectar Flowers
Select tubular flowers in bright colors like red, orange, and pink which appeal to hummingbirds’ vision. Examples include:
- Fuchsia
- Salvia
- Canna lily
- Coral vine
- Agave
- Columbine
- Firecracker plant
Arrange clumps of the same flowers together – hummingbirds prefer big nectar rewards.
Include Water Features
Hummingbirds drink and bathe frequently. Install a mister, fountain, or bird bath to provide fresh water.
Supply Feeders
Use feeders filled with a 4 parts water to 1 part white sugar solution. Avoid food dyes, honey, or artificial sweeteners.
Select feeders with red or yellow bases and multiple ports. Clean them regularly to prevent deadly mold growth.
Provide Perches
Hummingbirds rest between feeding bouts. Have small branches, posts, or laundry lines where the birds can perch.
Limit Pesticides
Avoid pesticides which can accumulate in nectar and poison hummingbirds. Opt for natural pest control instead.
With these straightforward tips, you can create a welcoming oasis for Mexico’s magical hummingbirds right in your own yard!
The Delight of Hummingbirds in Mexican Culture
Hummingbirds beautifully embody the history, artistry, values, and biodiversity that make Mexico such a culturally rich country. From ancient legends to colorful colloquial names, these tiny dynamos have captured Mexico’s imagination and pride.
The array of terms Mexicans use to describe hummingbirds reflect creative joy in language: Chupamirto. Tenten. Picaflor. Joya voladora. Each poetic name grants nuanced insight into the character of its subject.
The reverence Aztec culture demonstrated for creatures like quetzals and hummingbirds persists in Mexico’s appreciation of its natural heritage. While dashing from blossom to blossom against spectacular backdrops, hummingbirds help pollinate the diverse flora of their mountain, coastal, and desert homes.
As Mexico continues conservation efforts to protect its breathtaking landscapes, preserving habitat for its smallest feathered wonders remains an uplifting goal. The melodious buzz of hummingbirds will hopefully endure for generations to come, from bustling Mexico City gardens to misty Chiapas fincas.
Wherever your travels take you in Mexico, listen for the zippy wings and gluc-gluc calls of hummingbirds. Their sparkling, suspended grace and perpetual motion inspire childlike delight around the world. With caring actions, we can ensure these special creatures keep dazzling hearts and imaginations across Mexico.
Conclusion
Hummingbirds beautifully embody the history, artistry, values, and biodiversity that make Mexico such a culturally rich country. From ancient legends to colorful colloquial names, these tiny dynamos have captured Mexico’s imagination and pride. The array of terms Mexicans use to describe hummingbirds reflect creative joy in language and the reverence Aztec culture demonstrated for creatures like hummingbirds persists in Mexico’s appreciation of its natural heritage today. While dashing from blossom to blossom against spectacular backdrops, hummingbirds help pollinate the diverse flora of their mountain, coastal, and desert homes. Preserving habitat for Mexico’s smallest feathered wonders remains an uplifting goal so their melodious buzz endures for generations to come.
