Volcano Hummingbird vs Scintillant Hummingbird

In short

The Volcano Hummingbird and Scintillant Hummingbird are very similar, but the Volcano Hummingbird is generally found at higher elevations. The most reliable field mark is the male's gorget color: Volcano males have a heliotrope or rose-colored gorget, while Scintillant males have a more orange or coppery gorget.

Identification tips

1. Gorget Color: Check the male's gorget color—heliotrope or rose for Volcano, orange or coppery for Scintillant. 2. Elevation: Consider the elevation; Volcano Hummingbirds are usually at higher altitudes. 3. Size: Note that Scintillant Hummingbirds are slightly smaller. 4. Females/Juveniles: These are very similar in both species, making them harder to distinguish.

Size

Both species are small hummingbirds, but the Scintillant Hummingbird is slightly smaller.

Plumage

Males of both species have iridescent gorgets, with Volcano Hummingbird males showing heliotrope or rose hues and Scintillant males displaying orange or coppery tones. Females and juveniles of both species are similar, with green upperparts and whitish underparts.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit similar behaviors, including territorial defense around flower patches, especially during the nonbreeding season.

Habitat

Volcano Hummingbirds are typically found at higher elevations compared to the Scintillant Hummingbird, which is more common at slightly lower elevations.

Voice

Vocalizations are similar and not a reliable distinguishing feature in the field.