Violet-crowned Hummingbird vs Berylline Hummingbird

In short

The Violet-crowned Hummingbird and Berylline Hummingbird can be distinguished by their head coloration and wing patterns. The Violet-crowned has a distinctive white underparts and a violet crown, while the Berylline is more uniformly green with rufous wing patches.

Identification tips

• Look for the violet crown and white underparts on the Violet-crowned Hummingbird.
• Note the uniform green plumage with rufous wing patches on the Berylline Hummingbird.
• Observe behavior: Berylline Hummingbirds often gather in tree tops.
• Consider habitat: Violet-crowned may be more widespread in varied habitats.

Size

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

Plumage

The Violet-crowned Hummingbird has a striking violet crown and white underparts, with a green back. In contrast, the Berylline Hummingbird is more uniformly green with a metallic sheen and features distinctive rufous wing patches.

Behaviour

Both species are territorial around feeding areas, but the Berylline Hummingbird is noted for gathering in flowering tree tops and demonstrating dominance.

Habitat

The Violet-crowned Hummingbird can be found in a variety of habitats, often following seasonal blooms, while the Berylline Hummingbird prefers oak and pine-oak forests, forest edges, and suburban gardens.