Scaly-breasted Hummingbird vs Blue-tailed Hummingbird

The Scaly-breasted Hummingbird and Blue-tailed Hummingbird can be difficult to distinguish, but the Scaly-breasted has a distinctive scaly pattern on its underparts, while the Blue-tailed is noted for its blue tail. In good lighting, the Blue-tailed may show rufous in the wings, which the Scaly-breasted lacks.

Look for the scaly pattern on the underparts of the Scaly-breasted Hummingbird. Check for a blue tail and possible rufous in the wings in the Blue-tailed Hummingbird, especially in good lighting.

The Scaly-breasted Hummingbird features a scaly pattern on its underparts, whereas the Blue-tailed Hummingbird has a blue tail and may show rufous in the wings in proper lighting.