Image via Macaulay Library
White-tailed Emerald
- Scientific name
- Microchera chionura
- Family
- Trochilidae
- Conservation status
- Least concern
- Habitat
- Forest deciduous
- Wing shape
- Pointed
- Tail shape
- Forked
Where it came from
The White-tailed Emerald, scientifically classified as Microchera chionura, belongs to the hummingbird family Trochilidae. It is native to the humid forests of Costa Rica and western Panama, inhabiting the canopy and forest edges at moderate elevations. This species was formally described by ornithologist John Gould in 1857, a period marked by intense European interest in cataloging the biodiversity of the Neotropics.
The bird is distinguished by its namesake white tail, which contrasts sharply with its iridescent emerald-green plumage. The evolution of its pointed wings and distinctively forked tail reflects an adaptation for high-speed, agile flight necessary for maneuvering through dense canopy foliage to reach specific flowering plants. Within the scientific community, it is studied as part of the broader group of woodnymphs, recognized for its specific ecological niche and unique morphological traits.
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 White-tailed Emerald
White-tailed Emerald 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 White-tailed Emerald on collecto.rs?
White-tailed Emerald 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 White-tailed Emerald?
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 White-tailed Emerald catalog entry come from?
The catalog entry for White-tailed Emerald 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
