Hummingbird Spotting

Hummingbird Identification: An Illustrated Guide to All 14 North American Species

Hummingbirds are among the most beloved birds, but identifying them can be a challenge. They are tiny, restless, and their color patterns can look quite different from various angles. However, by paying close attention to details like size, shape, color patterns, location, and behavior, you can learn to distinguish the 14 species found in North America. Here is an in-depth guide to all the hummingbird varieties in the region, along with helpful identification tips and fascinating facts about their diets, behaviors, and more.

Rivoli's Hummingbird

Rivoli's Hummingbird, also known as the Magnificent Hummingbird, is a striking bird with large, iridescent green plumage that shimmers in the sunlight. Its most distinctive features include a vibrant purple crown and a contrasting throat patch that adds to its allure. The female of the species boasts a crown with a mesmerizing bronze-green hue, adding a touch of elegance to her appearance. These magnificent birds can be spotted gracefully fluttering in mountain canyons, enchanting observers from southeast Arizona all the way to the lush landscapes of western Panama.

Diet: Nectar from flowers like coral bean, century plant, and penstemons. They also eat small insects and spiders.

Blue-throated Mountain-gem

Identified by its brilliant blue throat patch, green crown, and grayish-white belly, this tiny hummingbird, known as the Azure-crowned Hummingbird, can be found fluttering amidst the vibrant flora of mountainous regions spanning from the northern Mexican state of Chihuahua all the way down to the lush landscapes of Guatemala. Its iridescent plumage glistens in the sunlight as it hovers gracefully, sipping nectar from the colorful blooms that dot its alpine habitat. This enchanting creature captivates observers with its delicate beauty and agile movements, embodying the splendor of the high-altitude ecosystems it calls home.

Diet: Nectar from flowers like orange wallflowers and beard tongues. Insects make up around 10% of their diet.

Lucifer Hummingbird

One of the most captivating hummingbirds is the Lucifer hummingbird, named for its mesmerizing appearance. The male boasts a radiant purple throat and crown, which shimmer in the sunlight, while the female is predominantly adorned in bronze-green hues, blending beautifully with its surroundings. These enchanting creatures can be spotted in the picturesque mountain canyons stretching from southeast Arizona to the western regions of Mexico, adding a touch of vibrant beauty to these natural landscapes.

Diet: Nectar from flowers like bells, honeysuckles, and elephant trees. Also eats small insects and spiders.

Broad-billed Hummingbird

As the name suggests, this southwestern desert hummingbird, also known as the Costa's Hummingbird, features a distinctive red broad bill that aids in sipping nectar from flowers. The male of this species showcases an iridescent blue throat that shimmers in the sunlight. These stunning birds can be spotted in regions stretching from southeastern California down to western Mexico, where their vibrant colors and graceful flight patterns captivate onlookers.

Diet: Nectar from flowers like ocotillos, fairy dusters, and penstemons. Feeds on small insects.

Violet-crowned Hummingbird

Identified by its stunning violet crown and distinct white striped facial pattern, this large hummingbird, known as the Costa's Hummingbird, graces the desert landscapes. With vibrant hues of purple and iridescent green, this fascinating bird is a common sight from the arid regions of southeast California to the vast expanses of western Texas, extending southward to the picturesque lands of Guatemala. Its graceful presence and swift movements bring a touch of wonder to these dry terrains, captivating the hearts of birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Diet: Nectar from flowers like desert willows, elephant trees, and big sagebrush. Also eats insects and spiders.

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

The Ruby-throated hummingbird, the sole breeding species in eastern North America, is renowned for its vibrant ruby red throat patch. This tiny marvel of nature is a frequent visitor to backyard feeders and flower gardens, delighting observers with its iridescent green plumage and delicate, swift movements.

Diet: Nectar from flowers like trumpet creepers, beebalms, and salvias. Also feeds on insects like mosquitoes, gnats, and spiders.

Black-chinned Hummingbird

With its sleek purple crown that glistens in the sunlight and a delicate thin black face mask that gives it a mysterious allure, this western hummingbird is a captivating sight. Found in the enchanting landscapes of chaparral and oak woodlands stretching from the picturesque regions of California to the vibrant terrains of New Mexico, this elegant bird graces these habitats with its presence. As the seasons change, it embarks on a remarkable journey southward, migrating to warmer climates for the winter, painting the skies with its graceful flight.

Diet: Nectar from flowers like paintbrushes, fuschias, and honeysuckles. Feeds heavily on insects in spring.

Anna's Hummingbird

This beautiful hummingbird, known for its striking iridescent crimson crown and throat, is a species of large hummingbird that can be observed year-round along the Pacific coast. These charming creatures are not only a common sight in urban yards and gardens but also bring delight with their acrobatic flight patterns and delicate beauty. With their characteristic high-pitched chirping, Anna's Hummingbirds add a touch of magic to any outdoor space, creating a serene and enchanting ambiance for all who have the pleasure of witnessing their graceful presence.

Diet: Nectar from flowers like currants, gooseberries, fuchsias and ornamental plantings. Will feed on insects and tree sap.

Costa's Hummingbird

The whitish gorget and deep purple cheeks make the Costa's hummingbird quite distinctive. This tiny bird, with its vibrant colors, is a marvel to behold. It is commonly found in deserts and arid regions stretching from the southwestern part of New Mexico down to the northwest regions of Mexico. The Costa's hummingbird's unique appearance and habitat make it a fascinating species to observe for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Diet: Nectar from flowers like paintbrushes, sages, and tree tobacco. They hawk for insects frequently.

Calliope Hummingbird

The Calliope hummingbird, known as the smallest bird in both the U.S. and Canada, showcases a distinctive streaky gorget and an iridescent crown, adding a touch of elegance to its appearance. During the breeding season, these tiny birds can be found fluttering in the serene mountain forests, creating a picturesque sight. As winter approaches, they embark on a journey to the warmer regions of southwestern Mexico, where they seek refuge until the next breeding season begins.

Diet: Nectar from flowers like scarlet gilia, Indian paintbrushes, and honey plants. Feeds on insects like gnats.

Allen's Hummingbird

Identified by its distinctive emerald green back, vibrant rufous tail feathers, and striking orange-red throat gorget, the Allen's hummingbird is a captivating sight. This mesmerizing species breeds along the picturesque Pacific Coast, with its enchanting presence gracing the region, and then migrates to the sun-kissed lands of Mexico during the winter months, adding a touch of color and elegance to the serene landscapes.

Diet: Feeding heavily on nectar from flowers like gooseberries, currants, and fuchsias. Insects like gnats are also consumed.

Rufous Hummingbird

One of the feistiest hummingbirds, the Rufous has a bright orange-red throat, greenish crown, and rufous back and tail feathers. It breeds from California to Alaska.

Diet: Nectar from flowers like paintbrushes, fairy candles, and honeysuckles. Also eats many small insects and tree sap.

Broad-tailed Hummingbird

Recognizable by its distinctive rose-pink gorget and reddish flanks, the Broad-tailed hummingbird (Selasphorus platycercus) is a captivating sight in mountainous regions throughout the western United States. During the winter months, these enchanting birds migrate south to Mexico, adding a touch of vibrant color to the serene landscapes they inhabit.

Diet: Favoring nectar from flowers like bush penstemons, scarlet gilia, and wild bergamot. Also consumes small insects.

Buff-bellied Hummingbird

Uncommon but striking with its buff-colored belly, bright green back, and reddish bill, the bird species stands out in its unique coloration. Its distinctive features include a vibrant plumage that adds a pop of color to its surroundings. This bird can be spotted in regions ranging from southern Texas all the way down to Central America, showcasing its beauty across different landscapes.

Diet: Feeds primarily on nectar from plants like turkey tangle fogfruit, Turk's cap, and firecracker bush. Also eats insects.

Things to Look For:

•Crown and gorget (throat) colors and patterns

•Overall body color patterns and shapes

•Habitat and geographic range

•Time of year for spring/fall migration

•Behavior like aggressiveness, feeding habits

Pay close attention to the details, and with practice, you'll be able to identify and appreciate all the remarkable hummingbird varieties found in North America. Keep your eyes open for these gorgeous creatures!