Glittering-throated Emerald vs Sapphire-spangled Emerald

In short

To distinguish between the Glittering-throated Emerald and the Sapphire-spangled Emerald, focus on the throat and belly coloration. The Glittering-throated Emerald has a white central and lower underpart, while the Sapphire-spangled Emerald features a violet-blue throat patch that extends to the upper belly. Both species are small hummingbirds with similar habitats and behaviors.

Identification tips

1. Look for the white central and lower underparts in the Glittering-throated Emerald. 2. Check for the violet-blue throat patch extending to the upper belly in the Sapphire-spangled Emerald. 3. Observe the undertail-coverts: white with gray streaks in the Sapphire-spangled Emerald. 4. Consider habitat overlap, as both species can be found in similar environments.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of small hummingbirds.

Plumage

The Glittering-throated Emerald has a fairly nondescript appearance with a unique white area on the central and lower underparts. In contrast, the Sapphire-spangled Emerald displays a violet-blue throat patch extending to the upper belly, with white undertail-coverts that have a gray streak around the shaft.

Behaviour

Both species are aggressive nectar feeders, often gathering nectar from a perch.

Habitat

Both species inhabit a range of environments including forest edges, second growth, open woodlands, and gardens.

Voice

The Glittering-throated Emerald has an insect-like song, but specific vocal differences with the Sapphire-spangled Emerald are not well-documented.