Berylline Hummingbird vs Buff-bellied Hummingbird

In short

The Berylline Hummingbird and Buff-bellied Hummingbird can be distinguished by their wing and tail coloration. The Berylline has distinctive rufous wing patches, while the Buff-bellied shows a buff-colored belly and lacks these wing patches. Both species share similar habitats but differ slightly in their range.

Identification tips

1. Look for rufous wing patches on the Berylline Hummingbird. 2. Note the buff-colored belly of the Buff-bellied Hummingbird. 3. Observe the tail: Berylline has a blue tail, while Buff-bellied lacks this feature. 4. Consider the habitat and range; Buff-bellied is more likely in southern Texas.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of medium-sized hummingbirds.

Plumage

The Berylline Hummingbird has a metallic green body with prominent rufous wing patches and a blue tail. In contrast, the Buff-bellied Hummingbird displays a buff-colored belly, green upperparts, and lacks the rufous wing patches.

Behaviour

Berylline Hummingbirds often gather in the tops of flowering trees and are known for their dominance displays. Buff-bellied Hummingbirds are less studied but are known to breed in southern Texas.

Habitat

Both species inhabit a range of environments including forests, edges, and gardens. The Berylline is found in oak and pine-oak forests, while the Buff-bellied is more common in arid shrublands and semihumid woodlands along the Gulf Coast.