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Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Archilochus colubris

A small migratory hummingbird species native to North America, characterized by its iridescent green plumage and distinctive ruby-red throat patch in males.

Image Gallery

Ruby-throated Hummingbird
Ruby-throated Hummingbird
Ruby-throated Hummingbird
Ruby-throated Hummingbird
Ruby-throated Hummingbird
ADSENSE SLOT

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 COAT Metallic green dorsal plumage, white underparts, males feature distinctive iridescent ruby-red throat patch (gorget)
  • LIMBS WINGS Extremely rapid wing beat frequency of 50-80 beats per second, enabling precise hovering and backward flight capabilities
  • HEAD SENSORY Long, slender bill (15-20 mm) perfectly adapted for nectar extraction, large eyes with excellent visual acuity
  • BODY STRUCTURE Compact 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
ADSENSE VERTICAL

Related Species in Trochilidae