Image via Macaulay Library
Scaly-breasted Hummingbird
- Scientific name
- Phaeochroa cuvierii
- Family
- Trochilidae
- Conservation status
- Least concern
- Habitat
- Forest mixed
- Wing shape
- Pointed
- Tail shape
- Notched
Where it came from
The Scaly-breasted Hummingbird, scientifically known as Phaeochroa cuvierii, is a member of the Trochilidae family native to the humid forests and shrublands of Central America, stretching from southern Mexico to Colombia. First described by the French naturalist and ornithologist Jules Bourcier in 1846, the species was named to honor the French naturalist Georges Cuvier. Its evolution within the Neotropics reflects the specialized adaptation of hummingbirds to exploit specific floral nectar sources in dense woodland environments.
The bird is distinguished by its pointed wing shape and notched tail, which facilitate agile, rapid flight through thick canopy foliage. Its namesake plumage—a subtle, scaly-patterned breast—serves as a cryptic camouflage against the dappled light of the forest floor. While ornithologists have historically studied its plumage patterns to distinguish it from similar species within the Lampornis group, the species is recognized by its relatively larger size and less iridescent, more earth-toned appearance compared to other regional hummingbirds.
Written by Pi, the helpful collecto.rs AI
Who's collecting this
Real birds collectors on collecto.rs who have this in their public collection.
About Scaly-breasted Hummingbird
Scaly-breasted Hummingbird is a bird in the Birdwatching catalog on collecto.rs. Catalog data is sourced from eBird. No public birds collectors track this one yet — adding yours would make you the first on collecto.rs.
How many collectors track Scaly-breasted Hummingbird on collecto.rs?
Scaly-breasted Hummingbird doesn't have any public collectors on collecto.rs yet. Sign up to add it and become the first.
Can I track my own copy of Scaly-breasted Hummingbird?
Yes. collecto.rs is free — sign up to log your bird, upload photos, record condition, edition, and acquisition cost, and connect with other birdwatching collectors. Your collection stays private by default.
Where does the Scaly-breasted Hummingbird catalog entry come from?
The catalog entry for Scaly-breasted Hummingbird is sourced from eBird. Catalog-level facts stay consistent across every collector; your own data (condition, edition, acquisition notes) is yours.
Is collecto.rs birds tracking free?
Yes. Tracking your birds is free — no paid tier required to catalog items, upload photos, or share your collection.
Track every bird you own
Free. Fun. Collection photos, notes, organization, value tracking, friends — all in one place.
Sign up free
