Rufous-tailed Hummingbird look-alikes
Amazilia tzacatl
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Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Rufous-tailed Hummingbird. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
Steely-vented Hummingbird
Amazilia saucerottei
Key differences
The Steely-vented Hummingbird has a blue-green or violet-blue rump and uppertail coverts, contrasting with its green back, and a dark, steel-blue tail. The Rufous-tailed Hummingbird has a bronzy-green rump and a rufous tail. The bill coloration is similar, but the tail color is the most reliable distinction.
Cinnamon Hummingbird
Amazilia rutila
Key differences
The Cinnamon Hummingbird has entirely cinnamon-rufous underparts and a cinnamon-rufous tail, contrasting with its green upperparts. The Rufous-tailed Hummingbird has a grayish-white belly and only a rufous tail.
Azure-crowned Hummingbird
Amazilia cyanocephala
Key differences
The Azure-crowned Hummingbird has a distinctive iridescent blue crown and a white belly, but its tail is dark, not rufous. Its bill is also entirely black or mostly black.
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