What distinctive sound does a Costa's Hummingbird produce during its steep dive?
Answer
A distinctive, buzzing sound from specialized outer tail feathers
Beyond the visual spectacle of the male's gorget and display dives, the Costa's Hummingbird produces a notable acoustic signature associated with its aerial maneuvers. During the steep, characteristic dive performed by the male, the bird pulls out of the descent, creating a very specific sound. This sound is a distinct buzzing noise, which originates from specialized modifications found on the bird's outer tail feathers, providing an auditory clue for confirmation of the species when visual identification via plumage might be obscured.
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