Slender-tailed Woodstar vs Violet-capped Woodnymph
Microstilbon burmeisteri versus Thalurania glaucopis
Play a quiz with Slender-tailed Woodstar and Violet-capped Woodnymph
Slender-tailed Woodstar
Violet-capped Woodnymph
In short
The Slender-tailed Woodstar and Violet-capped Woodnymph are both small hummingbirds, but they can be distinguished by their plumage and habitat preferences. The male Slender-tailed Woodstar has a distinctive iridescent reddish-purple throat and a slender, elongated tail, while the male Violet-capped Woodnymph features a bluish-violet cap and gold-green underparts. Females of both species are less colorful but differ in their underpart coloration.
Identification tips
Look for the male Slender-tailed Woodstar's iridescent reddish-purple throat and elongated tail. In contrast, the male Violet-capped Woodnymph has a bluish-violet cap. Female Slender-tailed Woodstars are buffy below, while female Violet-capped Woodnymphs are off-white. Consider habitat: Slender-tailed Woodstars are typically in the Yungas bioregion, whereas Violet-capped Woodnymphs can be found in more varied environments.
Size
Both species are small hummingbirds, but the Slender-tailed Woodstar may appear more delicate due to its slender tail.
Plumage
Male Slender-tailed Woodstars have a reddish-purple throat and white chest, while male Violet-capped Woodnymphs have a bluish-violet cap and gold-green underparts. Female Slender-tailed Woodstars are buffy below, whereas female Violet-capped Woodnymphs are off-white below.
Behaviour
Slender-tailed Woodstars may mimic bees and wasps, while Violet-capped Woodnymphs are known to adorn their nests with ferns and lichen during the breeding season.
Habitat
Slender-tailed Woodstars are found in the Yungas bioregion, moving between shrubby slopes and deciduous woodlands. Violet-capped Woodnymphs inhabit a wider range, from forests to suburban gardens.
Slender-tailed Woodstar · Violet-capped Woodnymph · My Tricky Birds