Hummingbirds are fascinating birds, and identifying them can be a fun challenge. Here’s a guide to help you identify some common hummingbird species and understand their behaviors.
Table of Contents
Common US Hummingbird Species
Ruby-Throated Hummingbird
- Description: Males have a vibrant ruby-red throat, while females have a grayish-white throat. Both have a green back.
- Range: Found in eastern North America, from Canada to the Gulf Coast. Almost certainly a Ruby Throat in that case. That’s all that really ventures that far east.
- Identification Tips: Look for the distinct red throat on males and the green back on both sexes.
Anna’s Hummingbird
- Description: Males have a rose-red crown and gorget (throat patch), and a green back. Females have a grayish throat with some red speckles.
- Range: Primarily found in western North America, from British Columbia to Arizona. Looks like Anna’s?
- Identification Tips: The rose-red crown and gorget are key identifiers for males.
Rufous Hummingbird
- Description: Males are mostly rufous (reddish-brown) with a green back and a bright orange-red gorget. Females have a green back with rufous flanks.
- Range: Migrates through western North America, breeding in Alaska and wintering in Mexico. They are in Central Texas so it is definitely a Rufous Hummingbird.
- Identification Tips: Look for the rufous coloring on the back and flanks.
Allen’s Hummingbird
- Description: Males have a green back and a rufous tail, with an orange-red gorget. Females are similar to Rufous hummingbirds but have a green back.
- Range: Found in coastal California and Oregon. I believe that was an Allen. They stay year-round in Southern California.
- Identification Tips: Differentiating between Rufous and Allen’s can be challenging, but Allen’s always have a green back.
Costa’s Hummingbird
- Description: Males have a deep purple gorget and crown, with a green back. Females have a grayish throat and a green back.
- Range: Found in the southwestern US and Baja California. Based on the layout of the chin feathers and the beak size, I’m going to say probably Costa.
- Identification Tips: The deep purple gorget is a distinctive feature of the males.
Hummingbirds Identification Tips
Coloration and Size
- Coloration: Hummingbirds come in a variety of colors, including green, red, orange, and purple. Pay attention to the color of the throat, crown, and back.
- Size: Hummingbirds vary in size, but most are small. The Giant Hummingbird, for example, is an exception. Whaaaattt?? I didn’t even know giant hummingbirds were a thing 😳
Flight Patterns
- Hovering: Hummingbirds are known for their ability to hover in place, which can help you get a closer look.
- Migration: Many hummingbirds migrate long distances, so their presence in your area might be seasonal. They are found all over the US. They sell hummingbird feeders wherever they sell birdseed.
Additional Tips
- Apps and Field Guides: Use apps like Merlin Birding App or a field guide to help with identification. “A fun, free app that helps is the Merlin birding app!”
- Feeders: Hummingbird feeders can attract these birds, making them easier to observe. This is one of 10 feeders in my backyard!
Hummingbird Habitats
Where to Find Hummingbirds
- Gardens: Hummingbirds are attracted to colorful, nectar-rich flowers.
- Feeders: Sugar water feeders are a great way to attract hummingbirds to your yard. So many at once! What do you have in the feeder?
Also Read: Hummingbird Care and Feeding
Migration Patterns
- Seasonal Visitors: Many hummingbird species are migratory and will only be in your area during specific times of the year. “Rufous hummingbirds migrate mostly east of the Rockies on their way south for the winter.
- Regional Variations: The number and types of hummingbirds can vary significantly by region. “We have many US species. The Rufous Hummingbird even nests in Alaska.
By paying attention to these details, you can become a pro at identifying the beautiful hummingbird species that visit your area.
Go Depper: Ultimate Guide to Hummingbird Care