How many kinds of hummingbirds…? (Your questions answered)

Last Updated on January 25, 2024 by Greg Gillson

This article addresses questions that begin with the words: “How many kind of hummingbirds…?”

If you live in the Eastern half of Canada and the United States, you likely have only one species of hummingbird that comes daily to your feeder–the Ruby-throated Hummingbird.

Even in the West and California, you are unlikely to spot more than 3 types of hummingbirds at your feeder most years.

There are well over 335 kinds of hummingbirds in the world! And they are magnificent!

Do you know how many kinds of hummingbirds have been found in your country or state or province? The different kinds of hummingbirds you have in your area are listed below.

Did you know there are many kinds of hummingbirds that aren’t called hummingbirds? I’ve compiled a list of them too, because they have marvelous names!

I list extinct and endangered hummingbirds.

Finally I answer two common questions: What kind of hummingbirds have red throats? And, What kind of hummingbirds are green?

Rufous Hummingbird. Greg Gillson.

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in the world?

There are up to 359 species of living hummingbirds in the world.

The International Ornithologist’s Union recognizes 361 species of hummingbirds in the world. This number includes 2 extinct species (Brace’s Emerald and Gould’s Emerald). (Source)

Another well-respected authority is Clement’s Checklist of the Birds of the World (Source). This is the basis for the eBird checklist, which shows 347 kinds of hummingbirds in the world. (eBird checklist)

Howard and Moore Complete Checklist of the World, 4th Edition counts only 339 species of hummingbirds in the world. (Source) 

Why do these different authorities all disagree about how many kinds of hummingbirds there are?

The main difference is the acceptance or not of a distinct population as a species. Is a certain population different enough from all others to be considered a separate species or not? Or is it just a minor variation in appearance or measurements that can be considered as a subspecies?

For instance, in January 2021 the Diamantina Sabrewing (Campylopterus diamantinensis) was officially split from Grey-breasted Sabrewing (Campylopterus largipennis). Thus, the Diamantina Sabrewing is the newest species of hummingbird, though it was formerly considered just a distinct population of Grey-breasted Sabrewing.

Not all hummingbird species have named subspecies. But the Fork-tailed Woodnymph (Thalurania furcata) has 12 subspecies!

How many kind of hummingbirds live in the Eastern Hemisphere?

All hummingbirds live in the Western Hemisphere. Except…

There are 6 fossil specimens of 2 species of birds from Europe that seem to be ancient hummingbirds!

Excellent fossil remains have been found of a bird named Eurotrochilus inexpectatus that had a tubular bill and shoulder bones shaped so that it could very likely hover in flight. Another very similar well-preserved fossil species is named E. noniewiczi.

How many kinds of hummingbirds live in the Western Hemisphere?

All hummingbirds alive today live in the Western Hemisphere. 

Using the eBird Checklist of Birds, 347 species of hummingbirds live in the Western Hemisphere.

How many kinds of hummingbirds live in South America?

South America is the center of hummingbird abundance.

260 species of hummingbirds are found in South America!

The countries in South America  are Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Columbia, Ecuador, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Uruguay, and Venezuela.

How many kinds of hummingbirds are found in Argentina?

32 species of hummingbirds occur in Argentina.

How many kinds of hummingbirds are found in Bolivia?

77 species of hummingbirds occur in Bolivia.

How many kinds of hummingbirds are found in Brazil?

80 species of hummingbirds occur in Brazil.

How many kinds of hummingbirds are found in Chile?

10 species of hummingbirds occur in Chile.

How many kinds of hummingbirds are found in Colombia? (What country has the most hummingbirds?)

160 species of hummingbirds occur on the eBird checklist in Colombia. That’s more than any other country!

How many kinds of hummingbirds are found in Ecuador?

130 species of hummingbirds occur on the eBird checklist in Ecuador.

How many kinds of hummingbirds are found in Guyana?

39 species of hummingbirds occur in Guyana.

How many kinds of hummingbirds are found in Paraguay?

20 species of hummingbirds occur in Paraguay.

How many kinds of hummingbirds are found in Peru?

125 species of hummingbirds occur in Peru.

How many kinds of hummingbirds are found in Suriname?

35 species of hummingbirds occur in Suriname.

How many kinds of hummingbirds are found in Uruguay?

7 species of hummingbirds occur in Uruguay.

How many kinds of hummingbirds are found in Venezuela?

99 species of hummingbirds occur in Venezuela.

How many kinds of hummingbirds live in North America?

There are 125 species of hummingbirds found in North America, according to eBird.

North American includes Greenland (which has no hummingbirds), Canada, the United States, Mexico, and Central America south to Panama, and islands of the Atlantic and West Indies (Bermuda to Cuba and south to Grenada).

How many kinds of hummingbirds live in Central America?

Central America has 86 species of hummingbirds. This includes the countries of Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Panama.

How many kinds of hummingbirds are found in Belize?

22 species of hummingbirds have been recorded in Belize.

How many kinds of hummingbirds are found in Costa Rica?

51 species of hummingbirds have been found in Costa Rica.

How many kinds of hummingbirds are found in El Salvador?

26 species of hummingbirds have been found in El Salvador.

How many kinds of hummingbirds are found in Guatemala?

38 species of hummingbirds have been found in Guatemala.

How many kinds of hummingbirds are found in Honduras?

42 species of hummingbirds have been found in Honduras.

How many kinds of hummingbirds are found in Nicaragua?

36 species of hummingbirds have been found in Nicaragua.

How many kinds of hummingbirds are found in Panama?

59 species of hummingbirds have been found in Panama.

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Mexico?

The eBird checklist shows 58 species of hummingbirds in Mexico.

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in the West Indies?

There are 20 species of hummingbirds found in the West Indies.

How many kinds of hummingbirds live in the United States?

There are 23 species of hummingbirds that have been found in the United States, 15 of these occur regularly, the others are quite rare.

The 15 hummingbirds that regularly visit the United States are these:

• Allen’s Hummingbird
• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Black-chinned Hummingbird
• Blue-throated Mountain-gem
• Broad-billed Hummingbird
• Broad-tailed Hummingbird
• Buff-bellied Hummingbird
• Calliope Hummingbird
• Costa’s Hummingbird
• Lucifer Hummingbird
• Rivoli’s Hummingbird
• Ruby-throated Hummingbird
• Rufous Hummingbird
• Violet-crowned Hummingbird
• White-eared Hummingbird

There are 8 rare hummingbirds in the United States:

• Amethyst-throated Mountain-gem
• Bahama Woodstar
• Berylline Hummingbird
• Cinnamon Hummingbird
• Green-breasted Mango
• Mexican Violetear
• Plain-capped Starthroat
• Xantus’s Hummingbird

Many of these have only been found along the Mexican border in Arizona and Texas.

How many kinds of hummingbirds occur in each state?

In the next section I will use eBird records as of May 2021 to tell how many kinds of hummingbirds occur in each state. Expect more to be added to the rare list.

How many kinds of hummingbirds occur in Alabama?

13 species of hummingbirds have been found in Alabama.

There are 2 kinds of hummingbirds regular in Alabama. 1 kind of hummingbird breeds and nests in Alabama:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in Alabama)
• Rufous Hummingbird

There are 11 species of rare hummingbirds that have been found in Alabama: 

• Allen’s Hummingbird
• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Black-chinned Hummingbird
• Broad-billed Hummingbird
• Broad-tailed Hummingbird
• Buff-bellied Hummingbird
• Calliope Hummingbird
• Costa’s Hummingbird
• Mexican Violetear
• Rivoli’s Hummingbird
• White-eared Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are found in Alaska?

5 species of hummingbirds have been found in Alaska.

There are 2 kinds of hummingbirds that occur regularly in Alaska. 1 kind of hummingbird breeds and nests in Alaska:

• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Rufous Hummingbird (nests in Alaska)

There are 3 types of hummingbirds that rarely visit Alaska:

• Calliope Hummingbird
• Costa’s Hummingbird
• Ruby-throated Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are found in Arizona? 

17 species of hummingbirds have been found in Arizona.

Texas has actually recorded more species of hummingbirds, but Arizona has more hummingbirds that are regular, occurring every year. And New Mexico also has recorded 17 species, but many more are rare than regular.

There are 14 kinds of hummingbirds that are regular visitors to Arizona. 10 kinds of hummingbirds regularly breed and nest in Arizona:

• Anna’s Hummingbird (nests in Arizona)
• Berylline Hummingbird
• Black-chinned Hummingbird (nests in Arizona)
• Blue-throated Mountain-gem (nests in Arizona)
• Broad-billed Hummingbird (nests in Arizona)
• Broad-tailed Hummingbird (nests in Arizona)
• Calliope Hummingbird
• Costa’s Hummingbird (nests in Arizona)
• Lucifer Hummingbird (nests in Arizona)
• Plain-capped Starthroat
• Rivoli’s Hummingbirds (nests in Arizona)
• Rufous Hummingbird
• Violet-crowned Hummingbird (nests in Arizona)
• White-eared Hummingbird (nests in Arizona)

There are 3 kinds of hummingbirds that are quite rare in Arizona:

• Allen’s Hummingbird
• Cinnamon Hummingbird
• Ruby-throated Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds have been found in Arkansas?

11 kinds of hummingbirds have visited Arkansas.

There are 2 hummingbirds that occur regularly in Arkansas. 1 kind of hummingbird breeds and nests in Arkansas:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in Arkansas)
• Rufous Hummingbird

There are 9 rare species of hummingbirds in Arkansas:

• Allen’s Hummingbird
• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Black-chinned Hummingbird
• Broad-billed Hummingbird
• Broad-tailed Hummingbird
• Buff-bellied Hummingbird
• Calliope Hummingbird
• Mexican Violetear
• Rivoli’s Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds live in California?

 14 species of hummingbirds have occurred in California.

There are 6 kinds of hummingbirds that are regular in California. 5 kinds of hummingbirds breed and nest in California:

• Allen’s Hummingbird (nests in California)
• Anna’s Hummingbird (nests in California)
• Black-chinned Hummingbird (nests in California)
• Calliope Hummingbird (nests in California)
• Costa’s Hummingbird (nests in California)
• Rufous Hummingbird

There are 8 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in California:

• Blue-throated Mountain-gem
• Broad-billed Hummingbird
• Broad-tailed Hummingbird
• Mexican Violetear
• Rivoli’s Hummingbird
• Ruby-throated Hummingbird
• Violet-crowned Hummingbird
• Xantus’s Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds occur in Colorado?

12 kinds of hummingbirds have been recorded in Colorado.

There are 4 kinds of hummingbirds that are regular in Colorado. 2 kinds of hummingbirds breed and nest in Colorado:

• Black-chinned Hummingbird (nests in Colorado)
• Broad-tailed Hummingbird (nests in Colorado)
• Calliope Hummingbird
• Rufous Hummingbird

There are 8 kind of hummingbirds that are rare in Colorado:

• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Broad-billed Hummingbird
• Costa’s Hummingbird
• Mexican Violetear
• Rivoli’s Hummingbird
• Ruby-throated Hummingbird
• White-eared Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Connecticut?

6 species of hummingbirds have been found in Connecticut.

There is only 1 kind of hummingbird that is regular in Connecticut. 1 kind of hummingbird breeds and nests in Connecticut:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in Connecticut)

There are 5 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Connecticut:

• Black-chinned Hummingbird
• Broad-billed Hummingbird
• Calliope Hummingbird
• Mexican Violetear
• Rufous Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Delaware?

6 species of hummingbirds are found in Delaware.

There is only 1 kind of hummingbird that is regular in Delaware. 1 kind of hummingbird breeds and nests in Delaware:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in Delaware)

There are 5 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Delaware:

• Black-chinned Hummingbird
• Broad-tailed Hummingbird
• Rufous Hummingbird
• Allen’s Hummingbird
• Calliope Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Florida?

11 species of hummingbirds have been found in Florida.

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is regular in Florida. 1 kind of hummingbird breeds and nests in Florida:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in Florida)

There are 10 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Florida:

• Allen’s Hummingbird
• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Bahama Woodstar
• Black-chinned Hummingbird
• Broad-billed Hummingbird
• Broad-tailed Hummingbird
• Buff-bellied Hummingbird
• Calliope Hummingbird
• Costa’s Hummingbird
• Rufous Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Georgia?

12 species of hummingbirds have been found in Georgia.

There are 2 kinds of hummingbirds that are regular in Georgia. 1 kind of hummingbird breeds and nests in Georgia:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in Georgia)
• Rufous Hummingbird

There are 10 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Georgia:

• Allen’s Hummingbird
• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Black-chinned Hummingbird
• Blue-throated Mountain-gem
• Broad-billed Hummingbird
• Broad-tailed Hummingbird
• Buff-bellied Hummingbird
• Calliope Hummingbird
• Green-breasted Mango
• Rivoli’s Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Hawaii? (What state has no hummingbirds?)

Hawaii is the only state in the United States without hummingbirds.

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Idaho?

8 species of hummingbirds have been found in Idaho.

There are 5 kinds of hummingbirds that are regular in Idaho. 4 kinds of hummingbirds breed and nest in Idaho:

• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Black-chinned Hummingbird (nests in Idaho)
• Broad-tailed Hummingbird (nests in Idaho)
• Calliope Hummingbird (nests in Idaho)
• Rufous Hummingbird (nests in Idaho)

There are 3 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Idaho:

• Broad-billed Hummingbird
• Costa’s Hummingbird
• Ruby-throated Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Illinois?

4 species of hummingbirds have been found in Illinois.

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is regular in Illinois. 1 kind of hummingbird breeds and nests in Illinois:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in Illinois)

There are 3 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Illinois:

• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Broad-billed Hummingbird
• Rufous Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are in Indiana?

6 species of hummingbirds have been found in Indiana.

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is regular in Indiana. 1 kind of hummingbird breeds and nests in Indiana:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in Indiana)

There are 5 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Indiana:

• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Black-chinned Hummingbird
• Calliope Hummingbird
• Mexican Violetear
• Rufous Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Iowa?

5 species of hummingbirds have been found in Iowa.

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is regular in Iowa. 1 kind of hummingbird breeds and nests in Iowa:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in Iowa)

There are 4 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Iowa:

• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Broad-billed Hummingbird
• Mexican Violetear
• Rufous Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Kansas?

10 species of hummingbirds have been found in Kansas.

There are 3 kinds of hummingbirds that are regular in Kansas. 1 kind of hummingbird breeds and nests in Kansas:

• Calliope Hummingbird
• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in Kansas)
• Rufous Hummingbird

There are 7 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Kansas:

• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Black-chinned Hummingbird
• Broad-billed Hummingbird
• Broad-tailed Hummingbird
• Costa’s Hummingbird
• Mexican Violetear
• Rivoli’s Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Kentucky?

4 species of hummingbirds have been found in Kentucky.

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is regular in Kentucky. 1 kind of hummingbird breeds and nests in Kentucky:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in Kentucky)

There are 3 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Kentucky:

• Black-chinned Hummingbird
• Mexican Violetear
• Rufous Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Louisiana?

14 species of hummingbirds have been found in Louisiana.

There are 6 kinds of hummingbirds that are regular in Louisiana. 1 kind of hummingbird breeds and nests in Louisiana:

• Black-chinned Hummingbird
• Broad-tailed Hummingbird
• Buff-bellied Hummingbird
• Calliope Hummingbird
• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in Louisiana)
• Rufous Hummingbird

There are 7 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Louisiana:

• Allen’s Hummingbird
• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Blue-throated Mountain-gem
• Broad-billed Hummingbird
• Green-breasted Mango
• Lucifer Hummingbird
• Mexican Violetear
• Rivoli’s Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Maine?

4 species of hummingbirds have been found in Maine.

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is regular in Maine. 1 kind of hummingbird breeds and nests in Maine:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in Maine)

There are 3 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Maine:

• Calliope Hummingbird
• Mexican Violetear
• Rufous Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Maryland?

7 species of hummingbirds have been found in Maryland.

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is regular in Maryland. 1 kind of hummingbird breeds and nests in Maryland:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in Maryland)

There are 6 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Maryland:

• Allen’s Hummingbird
• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Black-chinned Hummingbird
• Calliope Hummingbird
• Mexican Violetear
• Rufous Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Massachusetts?

6 species of hummingbirds have been found in Massachusetts.

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is regular in Massachusetts. 1 kind of hummingbird breeds and nests in Massachusetts:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in Massachusetts)

There are 5 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Massachusetts:

• Allen’s Hummingbird
• Black-chinned Hummingbird
• Broad-billed Hummingbird
• Calliope Hummingbird
• Rufous Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Michigan?

8 species of hummingbirds have been found in Michigan.

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is regular in Michigan. 1 kind of hummingbird breeds and nests in Michigan:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in Michigan)

There are 7 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Michigan:

• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Berylline Hummingbird
• Broad-billed Hummingbird
• Costa’s Hummingbird
• Mexican Violetear
• Rufous Hummingbird
• White-eared Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Minnesota?

4 species of hummingbirds have been found in Minnesota.

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is regular in Minnesota. 1 kind of hummingbird breeds and nests in Minnesota:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in Minnesota)

There are 3 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Minnesota:

• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Calliope Hummingbird
• Rufous Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Mississippi?

11 species of hummingbirds have been found in Mississippi.

There are 2 kinds of hummingbirds that are regular in Mississippi. 1 kind of hummingbird breeds and nests in Mississippi:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in Mississippi)
• Rufous Hummingbird

There are 9 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Mississippi:

• Allen’s Hummingbird
• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Black-chinned Hummingbird
• Broad-billed Hummingbird
• Broad-tailed Hummingbird
• Buff-bellied Hummingbird
• Calliope Hummingbird
• Mexican Violetear
• White-eared Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Missouri?

7 species of hummingbirds have been found in Missouri.

There is 1 kind of hummingbirds that is regular in Missouri. 1 kind of hummingbird breeds and nests in Missouri:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in Missouri)

There are 6 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Missouri:

• Allen’s Hummingbird
• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Black-chinned Hummingbird
• Broad-tailed Hummingbird
• Calliope Hummingbird
• Rufous Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Montana?

8 species of hummingbirds have been found in Montana.

There are 5 kinds of hummingbirds that are regular in Montana. 5 kinds of hummingbirds breed and nest in Montana:

• Black-chinned Hummingbird (nests in Montana)
• Broad-tailed Hummingbird (nests in Montana)
• Calliope Hummingbird (nests in Montana)
• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in Montana)
• Rufous Hummingbird (nests in Montana)

There are 3 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Montana:

• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Costa’s Hummingbird
• Rivoli’s Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Nebraska?

8 species of hummingbirds have been found in Nebraska.

There are 4 kinds of hummingbirds that are regular in Nebraska. 1 kind of hummingbird breeds and nests in Nebraska:

• Broad-tailed Hummingbird
• Calliope Hummingbird
• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in Nebraska)
• Rufous Hummingbird

There are 4 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Nebraska:

• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Black-chinned Hummingbird
• Broad-billed Hummingbird
• Costa’s Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Nevada?

7 species of hummingbirds have been found in Nevada.

There are 6 kinds of hummingbirds that are regular in Nevada. 5 kinds of hummingbirds breed and nest in Nevada:

• Anna’s Hummingbird (nests in Nevada)
• Black-chinned Hummingbird (nests in Nevada)
• Broad-tailed Hummingbird (nests in Nevada)
• Calliope Hummingbird (nests in Nevada)
• Costa’s Hummingbird (nests in Nevada)
• Rufous Hummingbird

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is rare in Nevada:

• Broad-billed Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in New Hampshire?

4 species of hummingbirds have been found in New Hampshire.

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is regular in New Hampshire. 1 kind of hummingbird breeds and nests in New Hampshire:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in New Hampshire)

There are 3 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in New Hampshire:

• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Calliope Hummingbird
• Rufous Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in New Jersey?

7 species of hummingbirds have been found in New Jersey.

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is regular in New Jersey. 1 kind of hummingbird breeds and nests in New Jersey:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in New Jersey)

There are 6 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in New Jersey:

• Allen’s Hummingbird
• Black-chinned Hummingbird
• Broad-tailed Hummingbird
• Calliope Hummingbird
• Mexican Violetear
• Rufous Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in New Mexico?

17 species of hummingbirds have been found in New Mexico. This is as many as Arizona, but Arizona has many more that are regular. Only Texas has recorded more.

There are 8 kinds of hummingbirds that are regular in New Mexico. 5 kinds of hummingbirds breed and nest in New Mexico:

• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Black-chinned Hummingbird (nests in New Mexico)
• Broad-billed Hummingbird
• Broad-tailed Hummingbird (nests in New Mexico)
• Calliope Hummingbird
• Lucifer Hummingbird (nests in New Mexico)
• Rivoli’s Hummingbird (nests in New Mexico)
• Rufous Hummingbird

There are 9 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in New Mexico:

• Allen’s Hummingbird
• Berylline Hummingbird
• Blue-throated Mountain-gem
• Cinnamon Hummingbird
• Costa’s Hummingbird
• Mexican Violetear
• Ruby-throated Hummingbird
• Violet-crowned Hummingbird
• White-eared Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in New York?

5 species of hummingbirds have been found in New York.

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is regular in New York. 1 kind of hummingbird breeds and nests in New York:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in New York)

There are 4 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in New York:

• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Broad-billed Hummingbird
• Calliope Hummingbird
• Rufous Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in North Carolina?

11 species of hummingbirds have been found in North Carolina.

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is regular in North Carolina. 1 kind of hummingbird breeds and nests in North Carolina:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in North Carolina)

There are 10 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in North Carolina:

• Allen’s Hummingbird
• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Black-chinned Hummingbird
• Broad-billed Hummingbird
• Broad-tailed Hummingbird
• Buff-bellied Hummingbird
• Calliope Hummingbird
• Green-breasted Mango
• Mexican Violetear
• Rufous Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in North Dakota?

4 species of hummingbirds have been found in North Dakota.

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is regular in North Dakota. There is 1 kind of hummingbird that breeds and nests in North Dakota:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in North Dakota)

There are 3 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in North Dakota:

• Black-chinned Hummingbird
• Broad-tailed Hummingbird
• Rufous Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Ohio?

7 species of hummingbirds have been found in Ohio.

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is regular in Ohio. 1 kind of hummingbird breeds and nests in Ohio:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in Ohio)

There are 6 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Ohio:

• Allen’s Hummingbird
• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Black-chinned Hummingbird
• Calliope Hummingbird
• Mexican Violetear
• Rufous Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Oklahoma?

9 species of hummingbirds have been found in Oklahoma.

There are 3 kinds of hummingbirds that are regular in Oklahoma. 2 kinds of hummingbirds breed and nest in Oklahoma:

• Black-chinned Hummingbird (breeds in Oklahoma)
• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (breeds in Oklahoma)
• Rufous Hummingbird

There are 6 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Oklahoma:

• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Broad-billed Hummingbird
• Broad-tailed Hummingbird
• Calliope Hummingbird
• Costa’s Hummingbird
• Mexican Violetear

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Oregon?

9 species of hummingbirds have been found in Oregon.

There are 5 kinds of hummingbirds that are regular in Oregon. 5 kinds of hummingbirds breed and nest in Oregon:

• Allen’s Hummingbird (nests in Oregon)
• Anna’s Hummingbird (nests in Oregon)
• Black-chinned Hummingbird (nests in Oregon)
• Calliope Hummingbird (nests in Oregon)
• Rufous Hummingbird (nests in Oregon)

There are 4 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Oregon:

• Broad-billed Hummingbird
• Broad-tailed Hummingbird
• Costa’s Hummingbird
• Ruby-throated Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Pennsylvania?

7 species of hummingbirds have been found in Pennsylvania.

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is regular in Pennsylvania. 1 kind of hummingbird breeds and nests in Pennsylvania:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in Pennsylvania)

There are 6 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Pennsylvania:

• Allen’s Hummingbird
• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Bahama Woodstar
• Black-chinned Hummingbird
• Calliope Hummingbird
• Rufous Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Rhode Island?

2 species of hummingbirds have been found in Rhode Island.

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is regular in Rhode Island. 1 kind of hummingbird breeds and nests in Rhode Island:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in Rhode Island)

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is rare in Rhode Island:

• Rufous Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in South Carolina?

8 species of hummingbirds have been found in South Carolina.

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is regular in South Carolina. 1 kind of hummingbird breeds and nests in South Carolina:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in South Carolina)

There are 7 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in South Carolina:

• Allen’s Hummingbird
• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Black-chinned Hummingbird
• Broad-billed Hummingbird
• Buff-bellied Hummingbird
• Calliope Hummingbird
• Rufous Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in South Dakota?

7 species of hummingbirds have been found in South Dakota.

There are 3 kinds of hummingbirds that are regular in South Dakota. 2 kinds of hummingbirds breed and nest in South Dakota:

• Broad-tailed Hummingbird (nests in South Dakota)
• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in South Dakota)
• Rufous Hummingbird

There are 4 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in South Dakota:

• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Black-chinned Hummingbird
• Calliope Hummingbird
• Costa’s Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Tennessee?

9 species of hummingbirds have been found in Tennessee.

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is regular in Tennessee. 1 kind of hummingbird breeds and nests in Tennessee:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in Tennessee)

There are 8 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Tennessee:

• Allen’s Hummingbird
• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Black-chinned Hummingbird
• Broad-billed Hummingbird
• Broad-tailed Hummingbird
• Calliope Hummingbird
• Mexican Violetear
• Rufous Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds live in Texas? (What state has the most hummingbirds?)

There are 19 kinds of hummingbirds found in Texas. This is more than any other state!

However, Arizona has more regular hummingbirds, just not as many rare hummingbirds, as Texas.

There are 10 regular hummingbird species in Texas. 7 species of hummingbirds nest in Texas:

• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Black-chinned Hummingbird (nests in Texas)
• Broad-billed Hummingbird
• Broad-tailed Hummingbird (nests in Texas)
• Buff-bellied Hummingbird (nests in Texas)
• Calliope Hummingbird
• Lucifer Hummingbird (nests in Texas)
• Rivoli’s Hummingbird (nests in Texas)
• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in Texas)
• Rufous Hummingbird

There are 9 types of rare hummingbirds in Texas:

• Allen’s Hummingbird
• Amethyst-throated Mountain-gem
• Berylline Hummingbird
• Blue-throated Mountain-gem (nests in Texas)
• Costa’s Hummingbird
• Green-breasted Mango
• Mexican Violetear
• Violet-crowned Hummingbird
• White-eared Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Utah?

9 species of hummingbirds have been found in Utah.

There are 6 kinds of hummingbirds that are regular in Utah. 5 kinds of hummingbirds breed and nest in Utah:

• Anna’s Hummingbird (nests in Utah)
• Black-chinned Hummingbird (nests in Utah)
• Broad-tailed Hummingbird (nests in Utah)
• Calliope Hummingbird (nests in Utah)
• Costa’s Hummingbird (nests in Utah)
• Rufous Hummingbird

There are 3 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Utah:

• Broad-billed Hummingbird
• Rivoli’s Hummingbird
• Ruby-throated Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Vermont?

2 species of hummingbirds have been found in Vermont.

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is regular in Vermont. 1 kind of hummingbird breeds and nests in Vermont:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in Vermont)

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is rare in Vermont:

• Rufous Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Virginia?

9 species of hummingbirds have been found in Virginia.

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is regular in Virginia. 1 kind of hummingbird breeds and nests in Virginia:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in Virginia)

There are 8 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Virginia:

• Allen’s Hummingbird
• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Black-chinned Hummingbird
• Buff-bellied Hummingbird
• Calliope Hummingbird
• Rivoli’s Hummingbird
• Rufous Hummingbird
• Violet-crowned Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Washington?

7 species of hummingbirds have been found in Washington.

There are 4 kinds of hummingbirds that are regular in Washington. 4 kinds of hummingbirds breed and nest in Washington:

• Anna’s Hummingbird (nests in Washington)
• Black-chinned Hummingbird (nests in Washington)
• Calliope Hummingbird (nests in Washington)
• Rufous Hummingbird (nests in Washington)

There are 3 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Washington:

• Broad-tailed Hummingbird
• Costa’s Hummingbird
• Ruby-throated Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in West Virginia?

4 species of hummingbirds have been found in West Virginia.

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is regular in West Virginia. 1 kind of hummingbird breeds and nests in West Virginia:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in West Virginia)

There are 3 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in West Virginia:

• Black-chinned Hummingbird
• Mexican Violetear
• Rufous Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Wisconsin?

8 species of hummingbirds have been found in Wisconsin.

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is regular in Wisconsin. 1 kind of hummingbird breeds and nests in Wisconsin:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird (nests in Wisconsin)

There are 7 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Wisconsin:

• Allen’s Hummingbird
• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Green-breasted Mango
• Mexican Violetear
• Rufous Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Wyoming?

6 species of hummingbirds have been found in Wyoming.

There are 4 kinds of hummingbirds that are regular in Wyoming. 4 kinds of hummingbirds breed and nest in Wyoming:

• Black-chinned Hummingbird (nests in Wyoming)
• Broad-tailed Hummingbird (nests in Wyoming)
• Calliope Hummingbird (nests in Wyoming)
• Rufous Hummingbird (nests in Wyoming)

There are 2 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Wyoming:

• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Ruby-throated Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are found in Canada?

In Canada, eBird lists 12 species of hummingbirds (5 regular: Ruby-throated, Rufous, Calliope, Anna’s, Black-chinned)

Below I list hummingbirds from eBird for each Province and Territory of Canada.

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Alberta?

6 species of hummingbirds have been found in Alberta.

There are 3 kinds of hummingbirds that are regular in Alberta:

• Calliope Hummingbird
• Ruby-throated Hummingbird
• Rufous Hummingbird

There are 3 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Alberta:

• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Black-chinned Hummingbird
• Costa’s Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in British Columbia?

9 species of hummingbirds have been found in British Columbia.

There are 4 kinds of hummingbirds that are regular in British Columbia:

• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Black-chinned Hummingbird
• Calliope Hummingbird
• Rufous Hummingbird

There are 5 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in British Columbia:

• Broad-tailed Hummingbird
• Costa’s Hummingbird
• Rivoli’s Hummingbird
• Ruby-throated Hummingbird
• Xantus’s Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Manitoba?

4 species of hummingbirds have been found in Manitoba.

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is regular in Manitoba:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird

There are 3 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Manitoba:

• Broad-tailed Hummingbird
• Calliope Hummingbird
• Rufous Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in New Brunswick?

4 species of hummingbirds have been found in New Brunswick.

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is regular in New Brunswick:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird

There are 3 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in New Brunswick:

• Black-chinned Hummingbird
• Broad-billed Hummingbird
• Rufous Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Newfoundland and Labrador?

3 species of hummingbirds have been found in Newfoundland and Labrador.

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is regular in Newfoundland and Labrador:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird

There are 2 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Newfoundland and Labrador:

• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Rufous Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Nova Scotia?

4 species of hummingbirds have been found in Nova Scotia.

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is regular in Nova Scotia:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird

There are 3 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Nova Scotia:

• Black-chinned Hummingbird
• Calliope Hummingbird
• Rufous Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Ontario?

7 species of hummingbirds have been found in Ontario.

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is regular in Ontario:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird

There are 6 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Ontario:

• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Black-chinned Hummingbird
• Broad-billed Hummingbird
• Calliope Hummingbird
• Mexican Violetear
• Rufous Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Prince Edward Island?

1 species of hummingbird has been found in Prince Edward Island.

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is regular in Prince Edward Island:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Quebec?

6 species of hummingbirds have been found in Quebec.

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is regular in Quebec:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird

There are 5 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Quebec:

• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Amethyst-throated Mountain-gem
• Broad-billed Hummingbird
• Mexican Violetear
• Rufous Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Saskatchewan?

4 species of hummingbirds have been found in Saskatchewan.

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is regular in Saskatchewan:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird

There are 3 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Saskatchewan:

• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Calliope Hummingbird
• Rufous Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Northwest Territories?

2 species of hummingbirds have been found in Northwest Territories.

There are no hummingbirds that are regular in Northwest Territories.

There are 2 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Northwest Territories:

• Calliope Hummingbird
• Rufous Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Nunavut?

1 species of hummingbirds has been found in Nunavut.

There are no kinds of hummingbirds that are regular in Nunavut.

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is rare in Nunavut:

• Rufous Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Yukon?

4 species of hummingbirds have been found in Yukon.

There are no kinds of hummingbirds that are regular in Yukon.

There are 4 kinds of hummingbirds that are rare in Yukon:

• Anna’s Hummingbird
• Calliope Hummingbird
• Ruby-throated Hummingbird
• Rufous Hummingbirds

How many kinds of hummingbirds are there in Saint Pierre and Miquelon?

1 species of hummingbirds have been found in Saint Pierre and Miquelon.

There are no kinds of hummingbirds that are regular in Saint Pierre and Miquelon.

There is 1 kind of hummingbird that is rare in Saint Pierre and Miquelon:

• Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Anna’s Hummingbird. Greg Gillson.

What are other names for hummingbirds? (How many kinds of hummingbirds are called something else?)

Did you know that not all birds in the hummingbird family have the word “hummingbird” in their name? Many kinds of hummingbirds are called something else.

Only 81 kinds of hummingbirds are actually called “hummingbirds.” A much larger number are called by different names.

Unlike no other group of birds, hummingbirds have received some really marvelous names!

Hummingbirds named after mythological beings

Many kinds of hummingbirds are named after imaginary beings, including fairy, sylph, and woodnymph.

Hummingbirds named after the sun and stars

The gorget on the throat of the male hummingbird catches the light of the sun. No wonder many kinds of hummingbirds bear names of bright space objects. Names include sunbearer, sunangel, starfrontlet, comet, sunbeam, starthroat, woodstar, hillstar, and sungem.

Hummingbirds named after gemstones

Early Spanish explorers in the New World called hummingbirds “Joyas Voladoras” (Flying Jewels). And many kinds of hummingbirds are named for bright gems. There are the topaz, sungem, sapphirewing, mountain-gem, emerald, sapphire, jewelfront, ruby, and brilliant.

Hummingbirds named for their unique bills

No other birds have the long tubular bills of hummingbirds. Thus, many kinds of hummingbirds have their bill as part of their name. You can find such names as sicklebill, lancebill, daggerbill, awlbill, avocetbill, and thornbill.

Hummingbirds named for their unique tails

Most hummingbirds have short tails. But many kinds of hummingbirds have special feathers in their tails. That has led to names such as thorntail, piedtail, trainbearer, metaltail, spatuletail, racket-tail, sheartail, goldentail, and streamertail.

Hummingbirds named for their crown or head

Many kinds of hummingbirds have colorful feathers on their head. There are hummingbirds with the following names: visorbearer, violetear, firecrown, helmetcrest, blossomcrown, plovercrest, plumeleteer, snowcap, and coronet.

Hummingbirds named for their throat

The throat of the male hummingbird is called a gorget, after a peice of armor that protects the throat. However, there aren’t very many kinds of hummingbirds named for their gorget. The only hummingbird names that seem to match are barbthroat, goldenthroat, and velvetbreast.

Full list of the kinds of hummingbird names

In the list below you’ll find even more marvelous names!

An alphabetical list of kinds of hummingbird names in the family trochilidae with the number of each:

• Avocetbill (1 species)
• Awlbill (1 species)
• Barbthroat (3 species)
• Blossomcrown (2 species)
• Brilliant (8 species)
• Carib (2 species)
• Comet (3 species)
• Coquette (10 species)
• Coronet (3 species)
• Daggerbill (3 species)
• Emerald (27 species)
• Firecrown (2 species)
• Goldentail (1 species)
• Helmetcrest (4 species)
• Hermit (32 species)
• Hillstar (9 species)
• Hummingbird (81 species)
• Fairy (2 species)
• Goldenthroat (3 species)
• Inca (4 species)
• Jacobin (2 species)
• Jewelfront (1 species)
• Lancebill (2 species)
• Mango (7 species)
• Metaltail (9 species)
• Mountain-gem (7 species)
• Mountaineer (1 species)
• Piedtail (2 species)
• Plovercrest (2 species)
• Plumeleteer (2 species)
• Puffleg (13 species)
• Racket-tail (1 species)
• Ruby (1 species)
• Sabrewing (12 speices)
• Sapphire (6 species)
• Sapphirewing (1 species)
• Sheartail (3 species)
• Sicklebill (2 species)
• Snowcap (1 species)
• Spatuletail (1 species)
• Starfrontlet (7 species)
• Starthroat (4 species)
• Streamertail (1 species)
• Sunangel (7 species)
• Sunbeam (4 species)
• Sungem (1 species)
• Sylph (3 species)
• Thornbill (7 species)
• Thorntail (4 species)
• Topaz (2 species)
• Trainbearer (2 species)
• Velvetbreast (1 species)
• Violetear (5 species)
• Visorbearer (2 species)
• Whitetip (2 species)
• Woodnymph (5 species)
• Woodstar (15 species)

How many kinds of hummingbirds are extinct?

There are 4 hummingbird species that are thought to be extinct. They haven’t been seen in over 150 years.

• Brace’s Emerald
• Coppery Thorntail
• Gould’s Emerald
• Turquois-throated Puffleg

How many kinds of hummingbirds are endangered?

27 species of hummingbirds are endangered, according to BirdLife International.

• Black Inca
• Black-breasted Puffleg
• Blossomcrown
• Blue-capped Hummingbird
• Chestnut-bellied Hummingbird
• Chilean Woodstar
• Colorful Puffleg
• Escudo Hummingbird
• Esmeraldas Woodstar
• Glow-throated Hummingbird
• Grey-billed Hermit
• Honduran Emerald
• Hook-billed Hermit
• Little Woodstar
• Mangrove Hummingbird
• Marvelous Spatuletail
• Mexican Woodnymph
• Perija Metaltail
• Purple-backed Sunbeam
• Royal Sunangel
• Sapphire-bellied Hummingbird
• Scissor-tailed Hummingbird
• Short-crested Coquette
• Turquois-throated Puffleg
• White-tailed Hummingbird

How many kinds of hummingbirds are green?

Female hummingbirds tend to be green on the back and have white under parts. It is the male hummingbirds that have the colorful throat.

On the West Coast, the Anna’s Hummingbird is green on the upperparts. The Rufous Hummingbird is rusty orange on the upper parts and tail.

Of course, this is a gross generalization. Many hummingbirds, male and female, have green feathers. But females of most kinds of hummingbirds tend to be green with other colors more muted than the male.

How many kinds of hummingbirds have red throats?

Male hummingbirds have red throats.

The color of the gorget (throat) on male hummingbirds can be red, orange, violet, blue, purple, pink. 

The feathers themselves are actually black. The color is produced by sunlight diffracting off the feather structure, similar to the way raindrops scatter light to form a rainbow of different colors.

Wrapping Up

There are many reasons why people find hummingbirds so delightful and endearing. Here are just a few:

Beauty and Fascination:

• Tiny size and agility: Their small size, often weighing only a few grams, and incredible agility in flight capture our attention and spark wonder.
• Iridescent plumage: Many hummingbird species have shimmering feathers that change color as the light hits them, creating a dazzling visual spectacle.
• Unique feeding behavior: Their hovering ability and rapid wingbeats while sipping nectar from flowers are mesmerizing to watch.

Positive Symbolism:

• Joy and happiness: Their lively movements and vibrant colors are often associated with joy, cheerfulness, and positive energy.
• Hope and resilience: Their tiny size and ability to migrate long distances inspire admiration for their strength and perseverance.
• Peace and tranquility: Their gentle humming sound and delicate movements can induce a sense of calmness and serenity.

Personal Connection:

• Backyard visitors: They readily visit feeders and gardens, allowing for close observation and fostering a sense of connection with nature.
• Importance to the ecosystem: Their role in pollinating flowers is crucial for plant life, making them valuable contributors to the environment.
• Cultural significance: Hummingbirds feature in myths, folklore, and artwork across various cultures, adding to their symbolic and cultural appeal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do hummingbirds go at night?

When nightfall approaches, hummingbirds don’t embark on grand migratory journeys like some larger birds. Instead, they enter a unique state called torpor to conserve energy for the next day’s activities. Here’s what happens:

Torpor Explained:

• Lowered body functions: During torpor, hummingbirds significantly slow down their heart rate, respiration, and overall metabolism. Their body temperature can drop from around 102°F to as low as 50°F, similar to hibernation in some mammals.
• Energy preservation: This dramatic state allows them to survive the night without having to constantly eat to maintain their high energy demands.
• Finding shelter: Hummingbirds typically seek protected and sheltered locations for torpor, such as:
  • Tree branches: They often perch upside down on sheltered branches, tucked deep within foliage for warmth and protection from wind and rain.
  • Nests: During the breeding season, females use their nests for both roosting and entering torpor at night.
  • Other sheltered areas: In some cases, they may utilize cavities in trees, crevices in rocks, or even abandoned man-made structures for protection.

Duration of Torpor:

• The length of torpor depends on various factors like temperature, food availability, and the hummingbird’s individual condition.
• On colder nights, they might enter deeper torpor and remain inactive for longer periods.
• During warmer nights or when energy reserves are readily available, they might experience shorter or shallower torpor states.

Emerging from Torpor:

• As dawn approaches, the hummingbird gradually reverses its physiological processes, raising its body temperature and metabolic rate.
• This process can take up to an hour, during which they remain vulnerable until fully awake and active.

Do hummingbirds return to the same place every year?

The question of whether hummingbirds return to the same place every year is a bit complex, as different factors influence their behavior. There is evidence that migratory hummingbirds return to the same area each year:

• Show strong site fidelity and often return to the same stopover points along their migration routes year after year. This includes resting and feeding areas where they can replenish energy for the long journey.
• May return to the same breeding grounds with varying probabilities:
  • Long-distance migrants: Species like Ruby-throated Hummingbirds that travel long distances have a lower chance of returning to the same breeding area due to higher mortality rates and variable environmental conditions.
  • Shorter-distance migrants: Hummingbirds with shorter migration distances have a higher chance of returning to the same breeding grounds, sometimes even the same specific garden or feeder, year after year. This is especially true for females who have successfully raised young there before.

Do hummingbirds recognize humans?

Whether hummingbirds can recognize individual humans in the same way we recognize each other is still an open question, but there’s some evidence suggesting they might have some abilities to distinguish individual human features. Scientists know that there is limited Evidence for Facial Recognition:

• Fewer brain structures for facial recognition: Unlike primates like humans, hummingbirds have fewer brain structures dedicated to facial recognition. This suggests their ability to recognize individual faces might be limited.
• Mixed research results: Some studies have shown that hummingbirds can distinguish between images of different human faces, but others haven’t replicated these findings consistently.

Related Articles:

Hummingbird Season: When to put out and take down your hummingbird feeders in every state

Hummingbird Nests: Everything you want to know!