Title:
Still my beating heart: Killing hummingbirds for love
Publication Year:
2025
Abstract:

To make chuparosa love charms, the birds are first illegally killed. The methods are not fully known, but available information suggests that slingshots were traditionally used. Currently, they are also dispatched with nets and shotguns, loaded with shells containing tiny pellets. Their bodies are desiccated, usually in eviscerated form. They are then sealed in a paper tube, wrapped in thread, and placed in a bag with a prayer card called an oracione. Contemporary chuparosa charms often also have a Hecho En Mexico (Made in Mexico) sticker attached. One presentation situates the body in a red paper tube, exposing the head whilst the body is hidden within a tassel of colorful satin strings. Typically, more expensive versions, referred to as vestida, are fully dressed in red.

Series Title:
Patrol
Item Type:
Report
Language:
en

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