A small migratory hummingbird species native to North America, characterized by its iridescent green plumage and distinctive ruby-red throat patch in males.
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Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Deciduous and mixed woodlands, forest edges, gardens, and urban landscapes across eastern North America, with seasonal migrations between breeding grounds in North America and wintering regions in Central America and the Caribbean.
Ecological Role
Critical pollinator for numerous flowering plants, playing a significant role in ecosystem biodiversity and plant reproduction through nectar feeding and pollen transfer.
Morphology
SKIN COATMetallic green dorsal plumage, white underparts, males feature distinctive iridescent ruby-red throat patch (gorget)
LIMBS WINGSExtremely rapid wing beat frequency of 50-80 beats per second, enabling precise hovering and backward flight capabilities
HEAD SENSORYLong, slender bill (15-20 mm) perfectly adapted for nectar extraction, large eyes with excellent visual acuity
BODY STRUCTURECompact body, approximately 7-9 cm in length, weighing 2-6 g, with streamlined aerodynamic form adapted for hovering flight
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Paul Danese