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Hummingbirds are birds native to the Americas and comprise the biological family Trochilidae. With approximately 366 species and 113 genera, [1] they occur from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego, but most species are found in Central and South America. [2] .
Jun 21, 2024 · Hummingbird, any of about 320 species of small, often brightly colored birds of the family Trochilidae, usually placed with the swifts in the order Apodiformes but sometimes separated in their own order, Trochiliformes. Learn more about hummingbirds.
- The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
Hummingbirds are charismatic, zippy little creatures that typically subside on the nectar of flowers. Because they are so speedy, and their metabolism matches their speed, they must eat virtually constantly. These little birds, native to the Americas, are incredibly unique and specialized. Read on to learn about the hummingbird.
- Ruby-throated Hummingbird. In summer, Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are the most frequently spotted hummingbirds in Canada and appear in 7% of checklists submitted by bird watchers.
- Anna’s Hummingbird. In winter, Anna’s Hummingbirds are the most frequently spotted hummingbirds in Canada and appear in 4% of checklists. While in summer, they are recorded on 2% of checklists.
- Rufous Hummingbird. Although considered near-threatened species, Rufous Hummingbirds are the second most frequently spotted hummingbirds in Canada during summer and appear in 3% of checklists.
- Calliope Hummingbird. Calliope Hummingbirds are recognized as regularly occurring hummingbirds in Canada. They are mainly seen in British Columbia and Alberta during the breeding season from late March to September.
Hummingbirds are among the most beloved birds, but identifying them can be a challenge. They are tiny and restless. Their color pattern can be difficult to discern on a tiny body and may look different when seen from different angles. In low light, hummingbirds may look dark or black.
Hummingbirds are small (weighing 2 to 20 grams), with long, narrow bills and small, saber-like wings. Males (and occasionally females) often have a colorful gorget—small, stiff, highly reflective, colored feathers on the throat and upper chest.
A flash of green and red, the Ruby-throated Hummingbird is eastern North America’s sole breeding hummingbird. These brilliant, tiny, precision-flying creatures glitter like jewels in the full sun, then vanish with a zip toward the next nectar source.
