the Ruby-headed 
also known under 
The Ruby and Topaz Hummtng-bird 
derives its name from the colouring of its 
head and throat, the former being of a deep 
ruby tint, and the latter of a resplendent 
topaz. 
Sometimes it is called 
Humming-bird, and it is 
the name of the Aurora. 
It is very common in Bahia, the Guianas, 
Trinidad and the Caraccas, and as it is in 
great request for the dealers, is killed by 
thousands annually. 
There is no species so common in orna- 
mental cases of Humming-birds as the Ruby 
and Topaz. ' 
It makes a very beautiful nest, round, 
cup-like, and delicately woven of cotton 
and various fibres, and covered externally 
with little leaves and bits of lichen. 
This nest is fastened to a long, drooping 
leaf, in a very ingenious manner, and is, by 
its peculiar position, protected from some of 
the many enemies which always surround 
birds while engaged in the duties of bringing 
up a family. 
It is a lovely little creature, the ruby of 
the head, and topaz of the throat, contrast- 
ing boldly with the rich, deep velvety brown 
of the back. 
The plumage of this species is extremely 
variable, but may be described briefly as 
follows : — The forehead, the crown, and the 
nape of the neck are metallic ruby red, 
and the chin, throat, and chest are effulgent topaz. The upper parts of the 
body are velvety bronze-brown, and the wings are purple-brown. The tail is 
rich chestnut-red, tipped with black, and the abdomen is a dark olive-brown. 
The female has none of the ruby patches on the head, but retains a little of the 
topaz on the throat. 
RUBY AND TOPAZ 
HUMMING-BIRD. 
CJirysolampis mosch itus. 
