Pigmy Hermit (Phaëthornis pygmæus), John Gould This being the most diminutive species of the genus Phaëthornis yet discovered, the term pygmæus is a very appropriate name for it. This illustration has been restored to its original vibrancy by enhancing colors and removing unwanted marks. A monograph of the Trochilidæ, or family of humming-birds was published between 1849 and 1887 by English ornithologist John Gould. This monumental work depicts and describes all the known species of hummingbirds at the time - comprising 418 lithographic plates and information on 537 species."