I have been induced to separate this species from the Erythronotes, to which it is most nearly allied, principally on account of its larger size, the white colouring of the basal portion of the outer tail-feathers, and the well-defined buff epaulets which adorn the shoulders.
In an ornamental point of view this species is eminently attractive; its glittering green throat and under surface presenting a marked contrast to the remainder of the plumage.
The discovery of this fine bird is due to the researches of the late M. DeLattre, either in Mexico or Honduras. The specimens in my own possession were kindly transmitted to me direct from Guatemala by George Ure Skinner, Esq.
Head, all the upper surface, wing- and tail-coverts dark green; base of the primaries and the whole of the secondaries chestnut-red, the remaining portion of the primaries being purplish-brown; tail very dark greenish-bronze, the basal two-thirds of the inner web of the two outer feathers on each side, and the margin of the same part of the third, pure white; under surface brilliant grass-green; under tail-coverts white; bill black; feet dark brown.
The figures are of the natural size.
Featuring all 422 illustrated species from John Gould’s A Monograph of the Trochilidæ, or Family of Humming-Birds arranged by color.
Humming-Birds
