This uncommon and locally distributed Cuban endemic is the smallest of all birds. Unlike most hummingbirds, non-breeding males such as this assume a female-like plumage. Males are slightly smaller than females. Formerly widespread in Cuba and the Isle of Pines this species is now restricted to three isolated areas, one in the far west where this photo was taken, one in the Zapata Swamp area and one in the far east. It is listed as "near threatened." This species seems to require native forest much of which has been converted for agriculture accounting for the recent steep decline and range contraction. The similar Vervain Hummingbird of Jamaica is almost as small. These two are the only members of the genus Mellisuga which translates to "honey sucker." These species are sometimes included in the genus Calypte along with the more familiar Anna's and Costa's Hummingbirds.
Digiscoped with Panasonic DMC-LX5 hand-held (no adapter)