Plain-capped Starthroat (Heliomaster constantii), Patagonia, Paton's House, Santa Cruz County

This Plain-capped Starthroat was discovered at the feeders at the Paton's House in Patagonia on 12 September 2008 by Robin Baxter and photographed by Christie Van Cleve on 13 September 2008

Plain-capped Starthroat is normally resident from southern Sonora, Mexico to northern Costa Rica. It strays casually to southern Arizona in summer and early fall, chiefly to elevations between 4,000 and 5,000 feet. There are fewer than 20 records for the state.  While birders most often find them at feeders, the species prefers hawking insects to taking nectar. They are also attracted to blooming century plants. The first Arizona (and U.S.) record was at a Nogales feeder, 20-30 September 1969. The third record, at Phoenix 17 October-28 November 1978 represents the farthest north and latest fall record for Arizona.

13 September 2008, photos by Christie Van Cleve

 

15 September 2008, photo by Clifford Cathers

 

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