ML152509911

Age

Not specified

Sex

Not specified

Observation details

This apparent female hummingbird is generally similar to A. tzacatl, but it is so buffy or cinnamon colored on the belly that it may actually be a hybrid, perhaps with A. rutila. It also appears to be nearly white on the chin. The secondary coverts appear to be paler or more brownish than is typical of tzacatl, so that also brings up the possibility of genes from another species. Comments from Sheri Williamson (authority on hummingbirds): "I've never seen a female tzacatl with so much pale coloration on the chin and throat or so little green on the lower breast, so a hybrid is a more likely explanation. The extensively red bill makes a hybrid with a dark-billed Amazilia unlikely, and the coloration of the rectrices, uppertail coverts, and underparts fits what we might expect from tzacatl × rutila."

Technical information

Original file size

3.12 MB