The Rufous Hummingbird (Selasphorus rufus) is a small bird known for its bright orange-red feathers on its throat and back. It is native to North America and belongs to the Trochilidae family, which includes all hummingbirds. The species was first described by John James Audubon, an American ornithologist, in the 19th century. The name “rufous” refers to the reddish-brown color of the bird, which is a prominent feature of its plumage. Rufous Hummingbirds are often seen migrating in large numbers and are highly territorial.
| POPULATION SIZE | 22 million |
| LIFE SPAN | 9 years |
| TOP SPEED | 60 miles per hour |
| WEIGHT | 3.1 gm |
| LENGTH | 7.5 to 9 cm |
Identification:
Juvenile Rufous Hummingbird:
- Juvenile Rufous Hummingbirds are typically smaller and have less vibrant colors. Their feathers are often a mix of greenish and brownish hues, and their throats are not as brightly colored as adult males.
Adult Male Rufous Hummingbird:
- Male Rufous Hummingbirds have bright, iridescent orange-red throats (also known as a “gorget”) and a greenish back. Their tails are long, with a distinctive forked shape.
Adult Female Rufous Hummingbird:
- Female Rufous Hummingbirds are slightly larger than males and have greenish backs and white bellies. Their throat may have some reddish hues, but it is less vibrant than the males’.
Size of Rufous Hummingbird:
- Length: The Rufous Hummingbird measures about 3 to 3.5 inches (7.5 to 9 cm) in length.
- Wingspan: Their wingspan ranges from 4.5 to 5 inches (11 to 12.5 cm).
- Weight: The average weight of a Rufous Hummingbird is around 2.5 to 4 grams.
Also, read All About the Bee Hummingbird
Call of Rufous Hummingbird:
Habitat:
Rufous Hummingbirds are mostly found in western North America, including parts of Canada, the United States, and Mexico. They are often seen in woodlands, gardens, and areas with abundant flowering plants. During the winter, they migrate to southern Mexico and Central America.
Died/Food:
Rufous Hummingbirds primarily feed on nectar from flowers, which provides them with energy in the form of sugars. They also eat small insects and spiders to get the protein they need. These birds are excellent at hovering while feeding, thanks to their specialized wings.
Nesting:
Female Rufous Hummingbirds build their nests in trees or shrubs, often at a height of 10 to 20 feet (3 to 6 meters). They use plant down, spider silk, and feathers to create a soft, cup-shaped nest. The female is solely responsible for building the nest and caring for the eggs and chicks.
Also, read All About the European Goldfinch
Behavior of Rufous Hummingbird:
Rufous Hummingbirds are very territorial, especially when it comes to feeding areas. They may chase off other birds and even larger animals that approach their territory. While they are not particularly aggressive toward humans, they may defend their feeding sites fiercely. If you have a hummingbird feeder in your garden, you may see them buzzing around it frequently.
Rufous Hummingbird Lifespan:
- In the wild, Rufous Hummingbirds have an average lifespan of 3 to 5 years. However, many do not live that long due to threats from predators, weather, and accidents. Some may live longer if they survive their first few years.
Rufous Hummingbird Facts:
- Impressive Migrators: Rufous Hummingbirds are one of the longest migrating hummingbird species, traveling up to 2,000 miles from Canada and the U.S. to Mexico during winter.
- Tiny But Mighty: Although they weigh only around 2.5 to 4 grams, Rufous Hummingbirds pack a punch with their speed and agility.
- Feeding Precision: A Rufous Hummingbird can feed from more than 1,000 flowers a day, visiting multiple flowers in a single trip and using its long tongue to lap up nectar.
- Unique Nesting Materials: Female Rufous Hummingbirds use spider silk to build their nests, a material that helps hold the structure together while being elastic and lightweight.
- Hummingbird Superpowers: They are the only birds that can fly backward, thanks to their figure-eight wing beats.
- They Can Sleep on the Move: Rufous Hummingbirds can enter a state of torpor, a kind of hibernation, at night when they sleep. This allows them to conserve energy, especially during cold weather.
- Social Hummingbird Behavior: Although they are solitary most of the time, Rufous Hummingbirds are known to tolerate others when food sources are abundant, allowing them to share feeding areas for brief moments.
- Superb Vision: Rufous Hummingbirds have excellent vision and can see the ultraviolet spectrum of light, which helps them identify flowers with nectar-rich rewards.
- Dangerous Defenders: Rufous Hummingbirds are highly territorial and will defend their feeding areas from larger birds and even other hummingbirds, making them fiercely protective.
Also, read All About the White tailed Eagle (Sea Eagle)
FAQ’s about Rufous Hummingbird:
Are Rufous hummingbirds rare?
No, Rufous Hummingbirds are not considered rare. They are common in North America, especially in the western United States and parts of Mexico. However, their population can be affected by environmental changes and habitat loss.
What are the predators of Rufous hummingbirds?
Rufous Hummingbirds face a few natural predators, including hawks, snakes, and larger birds like crows. Some smaller animals like spiders may also pose a threat to their nests.
Where do you find Rufous hummingbirds? (Where do they live?)
Rufous Hummingbirds are commonly found in North America, especially in the western U.S., from southern Canada down to Mexico. They prefer habitats like woodlands, gardens, and mountain meadows where they can find plenty of flowers for nectar.
Do Rufous hummingbirds migrate?
Yes, Rufous Hummingbirds are migratory birds. They travel from North America to Mexico during the winter. This migration can cover up to 2,000 miles and is one of the longest migrations of any hummingbird species.
Why are Rufous hummingbirds considered exotic pets?
Rufous Hummingbirds are sometimes considered exotic pets because of their colorful feathers and unique feeding habits. However, they are wild birds, and it’s not recommended to keep them as pets. They require a specific diet and environment to thrive, which is hard to replicate in captivity.
What do Rufous hummingbirds like to eat?
Rufous Hummingbirds primarily eat nectar from flowers, but they also feed on small insects and spiders for protein. They have an incredible ability to drink from flowers with their long, specialized beaks and forked tongues.
Are Rufous hummingbirds social birds?
Rufous Hummingbirds are generally not very social. They are territorial and will aggressively defend their feeding areas from other birds, including other hummingbirds. They prefer to be alone unless they are mating or feeding.
How long do Rufous hummingbirds live?
The lifespan of a Rufous Hummingbird in the wild is typically around 5 years, though many don’t survive their first year due to natural threats. The oldest known Rufous Hummingbird lived up to 9 years.
What can I feed my pet Rufous hummingbirds at home?
It’s best to provide nectar if you have a pet hummingbird, which you can make by mixing 1 part white sugar to 4 parts water. Make sure not to use honey, as it can harm them. They may also enjoy insects like tiny fruit flies or ants.
How much weight can a Rufous hummingbird carry in flight?
Rufous Hummingbirds are small, weighing only around 2.5 to 4 grams, so they don’t carry weight like larger birds do. They can, however, hover for extended periods and carry the weight of their own body while flying.
What would happen if Rufous hummingbirds went extinct?
If Rufous Hummingbirds went extinct, it would disrupt the balance of the ecosystems they inhabit. They play a crucial role in pollination by helping flowers reproduce. Without them, some plants might struggle to survive.
Can Rufous hummingbirds swim?
No, Rufous Hummingbirds cannot swim. Like most birds, they are not built for swimming, but they are excellent at flying and hovering in place.
Are there different types of Rufous hummingbirds?
Yes, there are different species of hummingbirds, and the Rufous Hummingbird itself has a few subspecies that vary slightly in color and size. However, the Rufous Hummingbird is one of the most recognized types.
What do Rufous hummingbirds dislike?
Rufous Hummingbirds generally dislike competition for food. They are highly territorial and won’t tolerate other hummingbirds or larger birds near their feeding areas. They also avoid cold weather and will migrate south when it gets too cold.
Can we pet Rufous hummingbirds?
While it’s not recommended to pet a Rufous Hummingbird, you can observe them in the wild or at feeding stations in your garden. In both the USA and EU, it’s illegal to keep wild hummingbirds as pets due to conservation laws and the challenges of providing them with proper care.
