Violet-crowned Woodnymph (Thalurania colombica venusta)

26 January 2009, Rancho Naturalista, Costa Rica This striking bird was the most common hummingbird at the feeders, but they were maddeningly active and difficult to photograph. This is a male. This species was called simply Crowned Woodnymph by earlier authors, but has gone under a plethora different more recent names. Some discussion and reasons for a proposal to go with Violet-crowned Woodnymph is at: http://www.museum.lsu.edu/~Remsen/SACCprop303.html This proposal passed the SACC. Four races are recognized. This is T. c. venusta which is larger and slightly brighter purple on the underparts and nape. Panasonic DMC-LZ5 / Nikon FieldScope 3 / 30X WA hand-held (no adapter)