Rufous Hummingbird
Updated: Apr. 24, 2020The most abundant hummer in the West, the orangey-red Rufous Hummingbird’s migration path occasionally leads it eastward, even as far as the Atlantic coast.
Photos
Information
Scientific Name: Selasphorus rufus.
Family: Hummingbird.
Length: 3-3/4 inches.
Wingspan: 4-1/2 inches.
Distinctive Markings: Male is reddish brown on back, base of crown and most of tail with a scarlet gorget (throat). Female is metallic green above, white below and has pale rust-colored sides.
Nest: Constructs a nest of plant down and lichen; lays two tiny white eggs, rarely three.
Voice: Call note is “chewp chewp” and wings make high buzzing sound.
Habitat: Open areas, residential areas and woodlands.
Diet: Attracted to nectar and tree sap.
Backyard Favorites: Sugar water and plants for nectar.
Bird Song & Range Map
Listen to the Rufous Hummingbird’s song and learn where to spot them!
Bird songs provided by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.
Range maps provided by Kaufman Field Guides, the official field guide of Birds & Blooms.
