The ruby-throated hummingbird is the most widely distributed and most commonly recognized hummingbird in North America. It is the only hummingbird species to regularly breed in the eastern United States and its colorful green and red plumage is instantly familiar to many birders.
Common Name:
Ruby-Throated Hummingbird
Scientific Name:
Archilochus colubris
Appearance:
- Bill: Long and black with a very slight downward curve
- Size: 3-3.75 inches long with 4-4.5-inch wingspan, narrow tapered wings
- Colors: Green, gray, white, red, black, buff
- Markings: Dimorphic species. Male birds have a black face, bright red iridescent throat, gray-white chest and bright green back and head with darker green wings and forked tail. Female birds have a white chin, throat, chest and abdomen, a buff wash on their sides, very faint throat streaking and a green head and back. Female birds have white tips on their tail feathers.
Foods:
Nectar, sap, insects, arachnids
Habitat and Migration:
Ruby-throated hummingbirds are common summer visitors in the eastern half of the United States as well as southeastern and south central Canada. The birds can be found in deciduous forests, parks, gardens and backyards, particularly areas with nectar-rich flowers. Ruby-throated hummingbirds migrate to Central America in the early fall, crossing 500 miles over the Gulf of Mexico without stopping.
Vocalizations:
Ruby-throated hummingbirds are not commonly vocal but do have a high pitched, sharp chatter and sharp, high “pips” they will use when threatened or during courtship displays.
Behavior:
Ruby-throated hummingbirds are strongly attracted to red and orange colors, as are most hummingbirds, and will hold their tails still while hovering to feed. Both male and female birds will use acrobatic aerial displays to defend their quarter-acre territory and they become more aggressive near food sources as they prepare for migration.
Reproduction:
Ruby-throated hummingbirds are solitary birds that only come together in pairs to mate. Pairs will produce 1-3 broods of 2 eggs each per year. The female birds build the nest, incubate the eggs for 10-16 days and care for the nestlings for 15-22 days after hatching.
Attracting Ruby-Throated Hummingbirds:
Hummingbirds are highly desirable backyard visitors. Ruby-throated hummingbirds can be attracted to nectar-producing flowers, particularly red blooms. Red columbine, bee balm and jewelweed are good choices for hummingbird gardens. Backyard birders can also hang nectar feeders to offer additional food sources and limit the use of insecticides to give hummingbirds a healthy insect food supply. Ruby-throated hummingbirds are also attracted to flowing water sources, misters and drippers.
Similar Birds:
- Black-Chinned Hummingbird (Archilochus alexandri)
- Broad-Tailed Hummingbird (Selasphorus platycercus)
Ruby-Throated Hummingbird - Male Photo © Hart Curt
Ruby-Throated Hummingbird - Female Photo © Gary Irwin
