ODNR Division of Wildlife - A to Z Species Guide - Ruby-throated Hummingbird

 Ruby-throated Hummingbird

ruby-throated hummingbird

The ruby-throat is among the smallest of birds, weighing less than an ounce. They are astounding flyers that can move forward and backward as well as hover in flight. They have been clocked flying up to 60 mph. The sound produced by its rapid wingbeats led to its name. You need only to sit near a flower being visited by a hummingbird to understand.


Listen
 

Ruby-throated Hummingbird
Archilochus colubris

At-a-Glance

• Mating: Polygamous

• Peak Breeding Activity: June and July

• Incubation Period: 14-16 days

• Young are Hatched: June and July

• Clutch Size: 2 eggs

• Young: Altricial, young leave nest at 20 to 22 days old

• Number of Broods per Year: 2

• Migration Patterns: Seasonal resident; no documentation as to how far young go to establish their own territory.

• Feeding Periods: Daylight hours

• Typical Foods: Nectar, small insects, and spiders


Description
The average ruby-throated hummingbird is 3 to 3 3/4 inches long, with a wingspan of 4 to 4 3/4 inches. The adult male has a red throat and a slightly forked tail. The red is not a pigmented color; its appearance is dependent upon the angle of light falling upon the bird's throat area. In dim or indirect light, the throat may appear black. Both sexes and all ages share the iridescent green back. Females and young of both sexes have white spots on the outer tail feathers. Juvenile males may show a few red throat feathers in late August and September, a month or two after they fledge. If observed at close range, juvenile birds can be identified by the light tan edges on their head feathers which give a scalloped appearance. These edges will wear off as the bird matures.

Habitat and Habits
Hummingbirds are seldom seen in large groups; they tend to be solitary creatures throughout their lives. Where concentrations occur at feeders, the birds are extremely aggressive and frequently challenge other birds at the site.

It appears that ruby throats are most common at areas where wooded edges are near water. Preferred flowers include jewelweed and cardinal lobelia, both wetland plants. They feed not only on flower nectar, but also on insects and small spiders they pluck from flowers or catch in mid-air. They are also easily attracted to artificial feeders and will use many garden flowers as a source of nectar and insects.

Reproduction and Care of the Young
This bird nests in trees, generally those at the edge of the woods or other opening, such as along a wooded stream side. If you are able to locate the tiny nest, which is the size of half an English walnut shell, you may well find nests in the same area in future years.