Archilochus colubris
Least Concern
Known as the jewel of the garden, the Ruby-throated Hummingbird is North America's most common hummingbird. This tiny, vibrant bird, primarily recognized by its glimmering green body and radiant ruby-red throat, captivates bird-watchers with its acrobatic aerial maneuvers and astonishing long-distance migration. Despite its small size, this hummingbird plays a big role in pollination, making it a cherished visitor in many backyards and gardens.
Green
Green
Green
White, Red
White
White
Black
Black
Black
Long and thin
Black
Black
Black
Black
Black
Black
Males have bright red throats
No red on throat
Similar to female
Short and slightly forked
White-tipped
White-tipped
7cm to 9cm
Length
8cm to 11cm
Wingspan
2g to 6g
Weight
Click on an image below to see the full-size version
Soft chirping sounds
Rapid, high-pitched chirps
Sharp, high-pitched trills
Feeds on nectar and insects throughout the day
Solitary, except during mating season
Defends feeding territories
Migrates to Central America in winter
Aggressively defends feeding territory
Nectar, Insects
Feeds on the wing, hovering in front of flowers to sip nectar
Throughout the day
Hovers in front of flowers to sip nectar
Also eats small insects and spiders
Requires high energy diet due to rapid wing beats
Trees or shrubs
Small cup of plant down and spider silk, covered in lichens
Spring to summer
Up to three
White
1.3cm x 0.8cm
1-3 eggs
12-14 days
18-22 days
Female cares for young alone
Eastern North America, Central America in winter
Woodlands, gardens, meadows
Sea level to 2000m
Migrates to Central America in winter
Forest, Grassland
Temperate, Tropical
Please note, this range and distribution map is a high-level overview, and doesn't break down into specific regions and areas of the countries.