How to identify the Rufous-tailed Hummingbird

To correctly identify the Rufous-tailed Hummingbird (Amazilia tzacatl), check each of these features. Birds can be tricky: habit, habitat, and call often confirm a sighting that a single photo cannot.

Size at a glance

Length

9-11 cm (3.5-4.3 in)

Wingspan

11-13 cm (4.3-5.1 in)

Weight

4.5-5.5 g (0.16-0.19 oz)

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Adults have iridescent green plumage on the crown, back, and flanks, transitioning to a duller, bronzy-green on the rump. The throat and upper breast are brilliant iridescent green. The belly is grayish-white, often with a green wash on the sides. The most distinctive feature is the rufous (reddish-brown) tail, which is slightly forked, with the central rectrices (tail feathers) sometimes having a bronzy-green wash. The undertail coverts are also rufous.

2. 2

   Beak shape

   Shape and color of the bill: a key field mark.

   Straight, medium-length bill. The upper mandible is black, and the lower mandible is reddish-pink or orange with a black tip.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Dark brown

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Dark gray to black

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   The combination of iridescent green upperparts, brilliant green throat, grayish belly, and a prominent rufous tail with a bicolored bill (reddish lower mandible with a black tip) are key identification marks.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juveniles resemble adult females but have duller plumage, often with buffy or rufous edgings on the feathers of the head and back, giving them a somewhat scaly appearance. The bill coloration may be less vibrant, with the reddish lower mandible being paler or more orange.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   No significant seasonal plumage changes. Plumage remains consistent throughout the year.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Males and females are very similar in plumage. Females may be slightly duller overall, with less extensive iridescent green on the throat and a slightly more grayish belly, but these differences are subtle and often not reliable for field identification.

Key field marks

• Tail Color. Look for the prominent rufous (reddish-brown) tail. This is the most distinctive field mark and gives the bird its common name.
• Plumage Coloration. Observe the brilliant iridescent green on the throat and upper breast, contrasting with the grayish-white belly. The back and crown are also iridescent green.
• Bill Color. Note the bicolored bill: black upper mandible and a reddish-pink or orange lower mandible with a black tip.
• Size and Shape. It's a medium-sized hummingbird with a relatively straight bill and a slightly forked tail.
• Vocalizations. Listen for its characteristic sharp 'chip' calls and squeaky, chattering songs, especially when it's agitated or defending territory.

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