rubrifrons

*Rubrifrons* is a genus of small, insectivorous birds belonging to the hummingbird family (Trochilidae). The name *Rubrifrons* derives from the Latin words *ruber*, meaning "red," and *frons*, meaning "forehead," referring to the distinctive red coloration found on the forehead of many species within this genus.

The genus comprises three recognized species, all of which are native to the Americas. These birds are primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions, including parts of Central America, the Caribbean, and northern South America. *Rubrifrons* hummingbirds are known for their iridescent plumage, which often shimmers in shades of green, copper, and violet depending on the angle of light.

The most well-known species is the *Rufous Hummingbird* (*Selasphorus rufus*), though it is sometimes classified under the genus *Rubrifrons* in older taxonomic systems. However, modern classifications typically place it in its own genus. The other two species, the *White-necked Jacobin* (*Florisuga mellivora*) and the *White-eared Hummingbird* (*Hylocharis leucotis*), are more commonly associated with the *Rubrifrons* genus in some sources, though they are now often reclassified into separate genera like *Florisuga* and *Hylocharis*.

These hummingbirds are highly specialized feeders, relying primarily on nectar from flowers, which they access using their long, extendable tongues. They also consume small insects and spiders for protein, often catching them in midair. Males are typically more brightly colored than females, a trait common in many bird species, and they engage in elaborate courtship displays to attract mates.

*Rubrifrons* hummingbirds play a crucial ecological role as pollinators, aiding in the reproduction of numerous plant species. Their small size, rapid wing beats, and ability to hover make them unique among birds, and they are a popular subject in both scientific study and birdwatching. Conservation efforts are important due to habitat loss and climate change, which threaten their populations in some regions.