Ruby-Throated Hummingbird

Ruby-Throated Hummingbird

  • Species: Archilochus colubris
  • Type: Bird
  • Typical Size: 3.0-3.5 in / 3.1-4.3 in wingspan
  • Plumage Colors: Males: metallic green with iridescent ruby-red throat; Females: green upperparts, white underparts, and no throat patch
  • Habitat Needs: Flowering plants / Shrubs / Wood edges / Water sources
  • Activity Period: Diurnal
  • Diet: Nectar / Small insects / Tree sap
  • Song/Call Description: High-pitched “tik” or “chip” sounds; males may emit a whirring during display dives

![ruby-throated-hummingbird_Screenshot 2025-05-07 093323](../images/ruby-throated-hummingbird_Screenshot 2025-05-07 093323.png)

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Bird Behavior

  • Notable Behaviors: Hover-feeding / High-speed chasing / Display diving / Territorial defense
  • Nesting Habits: Tiny cup nest in trees or shrubs, camouflaged with lichens
  • Attracts To Garden By: Nectar feeders / Native flowering plants / Water misters / Perches
  • Migration Patterns: Summer Migrant (breeds in North Texas; winters in Central America)

Favorite Plants Or Features

  • Favorite Trees/Shrubs: Oak / Elm / Dogwood / Small trees for nesting
  • Favorite Flowers/Grasses: Salvia / Turk’s Cap / Coral Honeysuckle / Trumpet Vine / Bee Balm
  • Shelter Choices: Dense foliage / Shrubs / Overhanging branches

Notes

  • Interaction with Pets: Avoids pets / May scold from nearby perch / Too fast to catch
  • Special Notes: Aggressive around feeders; one bird may dominate a feeder and chase others off

Description

The ruby-throated hummingbird is a dazzling summer visitor to gardens, renowned for its iridescent feathers and rapid, darting flight. Males flash a bright ruby-red gorget in sunlight, while females display elegant, subdued tones. These hummingbirds feed frequently throughout the day, relying on nectar, insects, and tree sap for energy. They are fiercely territorial-especially around feeders-and will chase off rivals with fearless speed and agility. Their nests are works of natural art, often blending seamlessly with a tree branch. In the garden, their presence brings a burst of motion and color, especially when flowers are in bloom and nectar feeders are well-stocked.

Known Emberwood Members