See text The hermits are tropical and subtropical hummingbirds in the subfamily Phaethornithinae, comprising 37 species in six genera.

The male and female plumages of hermits are very similar, with differences limited to details of bill-shape, tail-shape and/or strength of colours/patterns.

Hermits in the type genus, Phaethornis, have a long decurved bill (except for three species, P. koepkeae, P. philippii and P. bourcieri, with virtually straight bills) with a red or yellow base to the lower mandible, and their two central tail feathers are elongated and tipped with white, buff or ochre.

Many species of hermits form leks and congregate on traditional display grounds, where females visit to choose a mate.

Eutoxeres Ramphodon Phaethornis Glaucis Threnetes The taxonomy of some groups has changed significantly in recent years.