Rather large hummingbird of arid to semiarid forest and forest edge, thorn forest, and semiopen areas with scattered trees. Favors drier habitats, especially forest edges along streams, where feeds mainly in the canopy. As well as feeding at flowers, spends much of its time flycatching for insects, which it hunts from high perches. Note the very long straight bill, striped face with a dark throat, and white patch above the rump. Sexes look similar, but immature lacks adult’s red color in throat (which is very difficult to see; throat usually appears blackish). Lacks the turquoise cap of Long-billed Starthroat and has dusky (not greenish) sides.