Green Inca vs Violet-throated Starfrontlet

In short

The Green Inca and Violet-throated Starfrontlet are both hummingbirds with overlapping ranges, but they can be distinguished by their throat coloration and subtle structural differences. The Green Inca has a more uniform green throat, while the Violet-throated Starfrontlet features a distinctive violet throat patch.

Identification tips

1. Look for the throat color: Green Inca has a green throat, while Violet-throated Starfrontlet has a violet throat. 2. Observe the overall plumage: Both are iridescent, but the throat patch is the most reliable field mark. 3. Note the habitat: Both are found in montane forests, so focus on plumage for identification.

Size

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

Plumage

The Green Inca (Coeligena conradii) displays a predominantly green plumage with a green throat, whereas the Violet-throated Starfrontlet (Coeligena violifer) is notable for its violet throat patch. Both species have iridescent plumage, but the throat color is a key differentiator.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit typical hummingbird behavior, including rapid flight and hovering at flowers. No significant behavioral differences are noted.

Habitat

Both species inhabit montane forests and edges, but specific preferences within these habitats are not well-documented in the sources.

Voice

Vocalizations are not well-documented for these species, and differences are not highlighted in the sources.