Ruby-throated Hummingbird
Scientific Name: Archilochus colubris
Classification: Order: Caprimulgiformes, Family: Trochilidae
Brief Description
A tiny, metallic-green bird known for its hovering flight and rapid wing beats. In this image, it is seen hovering near an outdoor structure through a window.
Additional Information
- Region of Origin: Eastern North America
- Typical Sighting Period: Late spring through summer (April to September)
- Plumage Details: Adult males have a brilliant iridescent red throat (gorget) and emerald green back. Females and juveniles lack the red throat, having white undersides and white-tipped tail feathers.
- Ecological Significance: Crucial pollinator for many tubular flowers; they also consume small insects that can be plant pests.
- Conservation Status: Least Concern (Population increasing)
- Observation Tips: Install a nectar feeder or plant red/orange tubular flowers like trumpet creeper or bee balm.
Size & Weight
Length: 7-9 cm (2.8-3.5 in), Wingspan: 8-11 cm (3.1-4.3 in), Weight: 2-6 g (0.1-0.2 oz)
Diet
Floral nectar and small insects/spiders for protein.
Habitat
Deciduous forests, forest edges, orchards, meadows, and suburban gardens.
Migration
Migratory; they travel from Eastern North America to Central America and Mexico for the winter, often crossing the Gulf of Mexico in a single flight.
Voice (Call & Song)
Rapid, high-pitched squeaky chips and a mechanical humming sound produced by their wings.
Nesting & Breeding
Thimble-sized nests made of thistle or dandelion down held together by spider silk and camouflaged with lichen; typically 2 eggs.
Key Field Marks
Emerald green back, white underparts, long slender bill, and (in males) the iridescent ruby-red throat.
Similar Species
Black-chinned Hummingbird (western range) and Rufous Hummingbird (rufous coloring on the back and sides).
Interesting Facts
Their wings beat about 53 times per second, and their heart can beat up to 1,260 times per minute during active flight.