Ruby-throated Hummingbird: Jewel of North America

Introduction

The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is one of the most widely recognized hummingbirds in North America. Known for the brilliant red throat patch of the males and their dazzling aerial skills, this tiny bird combines beauty with endurance. Despite its small size, the Ruby-throated Hummingbird undertakes an extraordinary migratory journey, showcasing one of the most impressive feats of avian biology.

A male Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Important Details About the Animal

• Scientific Name: Archilochus colubris

• Classification: Kingdom Animalia, Phylum Chordata, Class Aves, Order Apodiformes, Family Trochilidae

• Distinctive Characteristics: Bright ruby-red throat patch in males, rapid wingbeats (50–60 per second), ability to hover and fly backward, long slender bill, iridescent plumage

• Size and Weight: 3–3.5 inches long; 2–6 grams in weight

• Habitat and Range: Eastern and central North America in summer; migrates to Central America and the Caribbean in winter

• Diet: Nectar from flowers and feeders, supplemented by insects and spiders

• Unique Behavior: Long migratory flight across the Gulf of Mexico, solitary nesting, aggressive territorial defense

Physical Characteristics

Males are easily identified by their iridescent ruby-red throat, which can appear black in low light. Both sexes have metallic green backs and white underparts, but females lack the red throat and tend to be slightly larger. Their wings move in a figure-eight pattern, allowing precise hovering while feeding.

The average Ruby-throated Hummingbird measures about 3 inches in length with a wingspan of 3–4 inches, yet it weighs less than a coin.

Flight and Migration

Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are famous for their long-distance migration. Each year, they travel from North America to wintering grounds in Central America and the Caribbean. Many undertake a nonstop flight of nearly 800 kilometers across the Gulf of Mexico, lasting up to 18 hours.

Their wingbeats range between 50 and 60 times per second, enabling them to hover in place, fly backward, and even upside down. This constant activity demands a very high metabolic rate, which is supported by frequent feeding.

Diet and Feeding Behavior

Like other hummingbirds, their diet is centered around flower nectar, which provides sugar-rich energy. They also consume small insects and spiders for protein. Using their extendable tongues, they extract nectar from tubular flowers and play an important role in pollination.

Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are highly territorial. Males often chase away rivals and even larger birds from feeding areas, ensuring access to rich nectar sources.

A female ruby-throated hummingbird feasting on nectar from scarlet beebalm

Habitat and Distribution

During summer, these hummingbirds are found across eastern and central North America, from southern Canada to the Gulf of Mexico. They prefer gardens, meadows, and forest edges where flowers are abundant.

In winter, they migrate to Mexico, Central America, and parts of the Caribbean. Their ability to thrive in diverse habitats has made them the most common hummingbird seen in the eastern United States.

Breeding and Nesting

Males perform dramatic aerial displays to attract females, but after mating, they take no role in raising offspring. Females build the nest alone, crafting a small cup-shaped structure from plant fibers, lichens, and spider silk.

A typical clutch consists of two pea-sized eggs, which hatch after about two weeks. The female feeds the chicks with regurgitated nectar and insects until they are strong enough to leave the nest.

Conservation Status

The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is listed as a species of Least Concern due to its large and stable population. However, threats such as habitat loss, climate change, and pesticide use could affect its long-term survival. Providing hummingbird feeders and planting nectar-rich flowers can help support local populations during migration.

Interesting Facts

• A Ruby-throated Hummingbird’s heart can beat up to 1,200 times per minute.

• Despite their size, they migrate thousands of miles annually.

• Their nests are so small they can fit on a clothespin.

• They remember every flower and feeder location they visit.

Ending Notes

The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is a tiny yet remarkable bird, combining stunning beauty with incredible endurance. From its shimmering red throat to its epic migratory journey, it continues to capture human fascination and play a crucial role in pollination. Protecting their habitats ensures that future generations will continue to enjoy the sight of these iridescent jewels of North America.