Avocettula and Avocettinus are the generic terms applied to the two species rendered remarkable by the points of the mandibles being curved upwards in the shape of a hook: this extraordinary deviation from the usual structure is doubtless designed for some especial purpose; but what that may be, is at present unknown to us.
In placing these two species near to each other, I do not mean to convey an idea that they are very nearly allied. One is an inhabitant of the Andes, the other of Guiana and the neighbouring countries. Nothing whatever is known respecting these singular birds.
Avocettinus eurypterus
Habitat: The high lands of New Granada
Plate 200
Avocettinus eurypterus
Purple-tailed Avocet
Featuring all 422 illustrated species from John Gould’s A Monograph of the Trochilidæ, or Family of Humming-Birds arranged by color.
Humming-Birds