Long-billed Starthroat vs Plain-capped Starthroat

In short

The Long-billed Starthroat and Plain-capped Starthroat are similar hummingbirds, but the bill length is a key differentiator: the Long-billed Starthroat has a longer bill. Both species have iridescent throats, but the Plain-capped Starthroat's throat is less vibrant and more uniform in color.

Identification tips

• Bill length: Long-billed Starthroat has a noticeably longer bill.
• Throat color: Long-billed Starthroat has a more vibrant iridescent throat patch.
• Habitat preference: Note the habitat; Plain-capped Starthroat is more often in drier, thornscrub areas.
• Observe carefully in good light to distinguish throat color differences.

Size

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

Plumage

The Long-billed Starthroat has a more vibrant throat with a noticeable iridescent patch, while the Plain-capped Starthroat's throat is plainer and less colorful. Both have metallic green upperparts, but the Long-billed Starthroat may appear slightly more colorful overall.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit typical hummingbird behaviors such as hovering and rapid flight. No significant behavioral differences are noted.

Habitat

Both species inhabit open woodlands and areas near water sources, but the Plain-capped Starthroat is more commonly found in semidesert thornscrub and dry tropical woodlands.

Voice

Vocalizations are not well-documented for either species, and they are generally not considered reliable for field identification.