Ruby-throated Hummingbird
Common NameRuby-throated Hummingbird
Scientific NameArchilochus colubris
FamilyTrochilidae
Primary Dietinsectivore
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Description
The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is a small, iridescent green hummingbird. Males are easily identified by their brilliant, iridescent ruby-red throat (gorget) which can appear black in certain light, and a forked tail. Females and immatures lack the red gorget, having a white throat, and their tails are rounded with white tips on the outer feathers. They are known for their rapid wing beats (up to 50-80 times per second) and agile, hovering flight. They are migratory, breeding in eastern North America and wintering in Mexico and Central America.
