Plain-capped Starthroat (Heliomaster constantii), Madera Canyon, Pima County

This Plain-capped Starthroat was discovered by Linda and Jerry Elling on 06 May 2013 and photographed by Jerry Elling on 07 May 2013 on the main trail adjacent to the Whitehouse parking area.

Rare summer visitor. Annual for the last 6 years.  About 20 records total.  Most records of Plain-capped Starthroat in Arizona come from the numerous feeding stations at middle elevations in the southeast region of the state, and most have occurred from late June through September.  This the earliest record ever and one of very few records from Pima County. 

The very long bill, white rump streak, white facial streaks, and red feathering on the gorget are all good marks for this species.

07 May 2013, photo by Jerry Elling

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