Hummingbird Taxonomy Update: New Scientific Classifications

Introduction

In 2021, significant taxonomic updates led to changes in the scientific names of various hummingbird species. These changes, based on advanced genetic and morphological research, enhance our understanding of hummingbird diversity.

Background on Hummingbird Taxonomy

Historically, hummingbird classification relied on observable traits and limited genetic data. Advances in genetic studies now allow for more precise classifications, leading to updates in scientific names.

Reasons for the Name Changes

The name changes result from comprehensive genetic analyses and morphological studies. By examining DNA sequences and physical characteristics, researchers identified distinct differences warranting new classifications.

Wine-throated Hummingbird

• Old Name: Atthis ellioti

• New Name: Selasphorus ellioti

1. Canivet’s Emerald

   • Old Name: Chlorostilbon canivetii

   • New Name: Cynanthus canivetii

2. White-eared Hummingbird

   • Old Name: Hylocharis leucotis

   • New Name: Basilinna leucotis

3. Wedge-tailed Sabrewing

   • Old Name: Campylopterus curvipennis

   • New Name: Pampa curvipennis

4. Rufous Sabrewing

   • Old Name: Campylopterus rufus

   • New Name: Pampa rufa

5. Coppery-headed Emerald

   • Old Name: Elvira cupreiceps

   • New Name: Microchera cupreiceps

6. White-tailed Emerald

   • Old Name: Elvira chionura

   • New Name: Microchera chionura

7. Pirre Hummingbird

   • Old Name: Goethalsia bella

   • New Name: Goldmania bella

8. Green-fronted Hummingbird

   • Old Name: Amazilia viridifrons

   • New Name: Leucolia viridifrons

9. Azure-crowned Hummingbird

   • Old Name: Amazilia cyanocephala

   • New Name: Saucerottia cyanocephala

10. Blue-vented Hummingbird

    • Old Name: Amazilia hoffmanni

    • New Name: Saucerottia hoffmanni

11. Berylline Hummingbird

    • Old Name: Amazilia beryllina

    • New Name: Saucerottia beryllina

12. Blue-tailed Hummingbird

    • Old Name: Amazilia cyanura

    • New Name: Saucerottia cyanura

13. Snowy-bellied Hummingbird

    • Old Name: Amazilia edward

    • New Name: Saucerottia edward

14. Guanacaste Hummingbird (unrecognized species)

    • Old Name: Amazilia alfaroana [unrecognized species]

    • New Name: Saucerottia alfaroana [unrecognized species]

15. Sapphire-throated Hummingbird

    • Old Name: Lepidopyga coeruleogularis

    • New Name: Chrysuronia coeruleogularis

16. Blue-chested Hummingbird

    • Old Name: Amazilia amabilis

    • New Name: Polyerata amabilis

17. Charming Hummingbird

    • Old Name: Amazilia decora

    • New Name: Polyerata decora

18. White-bellied Emerald

    • Old Name: Amazilia candida

    • New Name: Chlorestes candida

19. Blue-throated Goldentail

    • Old Name: Hylocharis eliciae

    • New Name: Chlorestes eliciae

20. Violet-bellied Hummingbird

    • Old Name: Juliamyia julie

    • New Name: Chlorestes julie

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