Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Archilochus colubris

Only the male has the eponymous throat, which glows ruby red or looks almost black depending on the angle of light. Hovering in front of flowers, the birds can even fly backwards.

Group
Hummingbirds
Photos
2
Taken
2024

Profile: Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Family
Hummingbirds (Trochilidae)
Size
approx. 7–9 cm
Wingspan
approx. 8–11 cm
Weight
approx. 3 g
Habitat
Deciduous and mixed woodland, forest edges, orchards and gardens in eastern North America.
Diet
Flower nectar, plus small insects and spiders as a source of protein.
When to see
Migrant: breeds in summer in the eastern USA and southern Canada and winters in Mexico and Central America; many cross the Gulf of Mexico on the way.

Learn more: Wikipedia