How To Enjoy Hummingbirds

Anna’s Hummingbird (Calypte anna) is a captivating species that never fails to amaze bird enthusiasts and casual observers alike. These tiny, vibrant creatures are known for their stunning colors and unique behaviors. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the fascinating world of Anna’s Hummingbirds, from their distinctive features to their habitat preferences. Moreover, we’ll delve into how you can attract these jewel-like birds to your garden.

Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or simply enjoy the beauty of nature in your backyard, understanding these remarkable birds will enhance your appreciation for them. So, let’s embark on this journey to discover the wonders of Anna’s Hummingbirds!

Physical Characteristics of Anna’s Hummingbird

Size and Appearance

Anna’s Hummingbirds are truly tiny marvels of nature. They typically measure about 3.9 to 4.3 inches in length, with a wingspan of 4.7 inches. Despite their small size, they pack a lot of character into their diminutive frames. These birds weigh a mere 3 to 6 grams, which is less than the weight of a nickel!

One of the most striking features of Anna’s Hummingbirds is their iridescent feathers. These feathers shimmer and change color depending on the angle of light, creating a dazzling display. The most prominent feature is undoubtedly their gorget – a patch of feathers on the throat and head. In males, this gorget is a brilliant rose-red color that can appear black in certain lights.

Sexual Dimorphism

Interestingly, Anna’s Hummingbirds exhibit clear sexual dimorphism, which means males and females look different. The males are the showstoppers with their iridescent rose-red crowns and gorgets. Their backs are a metallic green color that shimmers in the sunlight. Female Anna’s Hummingbirds, on the other hand, are more subdued in their coloration. They have green backs and grayish undersides, with a small red patch on their throats.

This difference in appearance plays a crucial role in the birds’ breeding behaviors. The males’ flashy colors are used to attract females and establish dominance over other males. Meanwhile, the females’ more muted colors help them blend into their surroundings when nesting, providing camouflage from potential predators.

Habitat and Distribution

Geographic Range

Anna’s Hummingbirds are primarily found along the western coast of North America. Their range extends from southern Alaska to northern Baja California. However, they are most common in California and Oregon. Unlike many hummingbird species, Anna’s Hummingbirds are largely non-migratory. They tend to stay in the same areas year-round, which is quite unusual for hummingbirds.

In recent years, their range has been expanding. This expansion is partly due to the increased availability of exotic flowering plants and hummingbird feeders in urban and suburban areas. As a result, these adaptable birds are now found in areas where they were previously absent.

Preferred Environments

Anna’s Hummingbirds are remarkably adaptable when it comes to their habitat preferences. They thrive in a variety of ecosystems, including:

1. Coastal scrub

2. Oak savannas

3. Open woodlands

4. Urban and suburban gardens

These birds have shown a particular affinity for human-altered landscapes. They are frequently spotted in parks, gardens, and even busy city centers where flowering plants are abundant. This adaptability has contributed to their success as a species.

Anna’s Hummingbirds prefer areas with a mix of open spaces and trees or shrubs. The open areas provide space for their aerial displays, while the trees and shrubs offer perching spots and nesting sites. They are often found near sources of nectar, whether from native plants or garden flowers.

Behavior and Lifestyle

Feeding Habits

Anna’s Hummingbirds, like all hummingbirds, have a high-energy lifestyle that requires a specialized diet. Their primary food source is nectar from flowers, which provides them with the sugar they need for their incredibly fast metabolism. They are particularly fond of tubular flowers, which their long beaks are perfectly adapted to reach into.

However, nectar isn’t their only food source. Anna’s Hummingbirds also consume small insects and spiders. These provide essential proteins and minerals that are not found in nectar. They catch these small prey items in mid-air or pluck them from leaves and spider webs.

Their feeding technique is truly a marvel to witness. They can hover in place while feeding, thanks to their ability to move their wings in a figure-eight pattern. This unique flight capability allows them to access nectar from flowers that other birds can’t reach.

Breeding and Nesting

The breeding season for Anna’s Hummingbirds typically begins in December and can last until May or June. Males start the process with elaborate courtship displays. They perform spectacular dive displays, climbing up to 130 feet in the air before plummeting towards the ground. At the bottom of the dive, they produce a loud chirp with their tail feathers, creating a distinctive sound that’s hard to miss.

Once a female is impressed, she will choose a nesting site. Anna’s Hummingbirds build tiny, cup-shaped nests using plant down, spider webs, and bits of lichen or bark. These nests are often found on thin, descending branches of trees or shrubs, typically 6 to 20 feet off the ground.

The female usually lays two tiny eggs, each about the size of a coffee bean. She incubates the eggs for about 14 to 19 days. After hatching, the chicks remain in the nest for about 18 to 23 days before fledging. During this time, the female feeds them regurgitated insects and nectar.

Unique Behaviors

Anna’s Hummingbirds are known for their feisty and territorial nature. Males, in particular, will vigorously defend feeding and breeding territories. They use a combination of aggressive chases and vocalizations to ward off intruders, whether they’re other hummingbirds or much larger birds.

Their vocalizations are another fascinating aspect of their behavior. Despite their small size, Anna’s Hummingbirds are surprisingly vocal. They produce a variety of chirps, buzzes, and whistles. The males’ dive display, mentioned earlier, produces a distinctive explosive chirp at the bottom of the dive, which is actually created by their tail feathers.

Another unique behavior is their ability to enter a state of torpor. This is a type of deep sleep where they lower their body temperature and slow their heart rate to conserve energy during cold nights. It’s an essential survival strategy that allows them to thrive in areas with cooler climates.

Conservation Status and Threats

The Anna’s Hummingbird is one of the most popular of the hummingbird species. It is found primarily in the Western US and Canada. The Anna’s Hummingbird is a medium-sized bird and the male’s crown and throat are covered in bright iridescent reddish pink feathers.

Current Population Status

Fortunately, Anna’s Hummingbirds are currently classified as a species of Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). This classification is due to their large range, increasing population trends, and adaptability to human-altered environments.

In fact, unlike many bird species, Anna’s Hummingbirds have actually expanded their range over the past century. This expansion is largely attributed to the increased availability of exotic flowering plants in gardens and the widespread use of hummingbird feeders.

Threats to Anna’s Hummingbirds

Anna’s hummingbirds are some of the most amazing hummingbirds. They live in North America and do not migrate south for the winter. They breed not only in sunny California and warm Arizona but also in Washington state and Vancouver, Canada.

Despite their current stable status, Anna’s Hummingbirds do face several threats:

1. Habitat loss: As urban development continues to expand, natural habitats are being reduced. While these birds have adapted well to urban environments, the loss of native plant species can impact their food sources.

2. Climate change: Shifting weather patterns could affect the timing of flower blooms, potentially creating a mismatch between the hummingbirds’ breeding season and the availability of food sources.

3. Window collisions: Like many birds, Anna’s Hummingbirds are at risk of colliding with windows, especially in urban and suburban areas.

4. Pesticides: The use of pesticides can reduce insect populations, which are an important protein source for these birds. Additionally, pesticides can contaminate nectar sources.

5. Invasive species: Non-native plants and animals can disrupt local ecosystems and compete with Anna’s Hummingbirds for resources.

While these threats exist, the adaptability of Anna’s Hummingbirds has so far allowed them to thrive. However, continued monitoring and conservation efforts are crucial to ensure their long-term survival.

How to Attract Anna’s Hummingbirds to Your Garden

Creating a Hummingbird-Friendly Environment

Attracting Anna’s Hummingbirds to your garden can be a rewarding experience. Here are some tips to create a hummingbird-friendly environment:

• Plant native flowers: Anna’s Hummingbirds are attracted to tubular flowers in bright colors, especially red. Some native plants they love include California fuchsia, western columbine, and beard tongue.

• Consider adding a mister or dripper to create moving water, which attracts hummingbirds. They often enjoy flying through fine sprays of water.

  

• Avoid pesticides: Use natural pest control methods to protect the insects that hummingbirds feed on.

• Offer perches: Hummingbirds need places to rest. Thin, bare branches or even clotheslines can serve as perfect perches.

  

• Set up hummingbird feeders: Use feeders filled with a solution of four parts water to one part white sugar. Never use honey, artificial sweeteners, or red food coloring.

• Here’s a complete guide to attracting hummingbirds to your yard. It lists plants, vines and shrubs that are in bloom for spring, summer and fall. Your hummingbirds will always have flowers to feed on.

Best Practices for Observation

Observing Anna’s Hummingbirds can be an exciting activity, but it’s important to do so responsibly:

1. Keep your distance: Use binoculars or a telephoto lens to observe the birds without disturbing them.

2. Avoid flash photography: The bright flash can startle and stress the birds.

3. Don’t disturb nests: If you find a hummingbird nest, observe from a distance to avoid stressing the mother or chicks.

4. Maintain feeders properly: Clean feeders regularly and replace the sugar solution every few days to prevent the growth of harmful mold.

5. Create a diverse habitat: Plant a variety of native flowers that bloom at different times to provide a consistent food source.

By following these guidelines, you can create a safe and welcoming environment for Anna’s Hummingbirds while enjoying their beauty and behaviors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does an Anna’s Hummingbird sound like?

Anna’s Hummingbirds are known for their high-pitched chirps and buzzing sounds. The males produce a distinctive sound during their dive displays, which is actually created by their tail feathers. This sound is often described as a loud, explosive chirp or a “squeak” at the bottom of the dive. Their regular vocalizations include a variety of chirps, buzzes, and high-pitched whistles.

Male Anna’s Hummingbird on his favorite feeder guarding perch being quite noisy.

How long do Anna’s Hummingbirds live?

The average lifespan of an Anna’s Hummingbird in the wild is typically 3 to 5 years. However, some individuals have been known to live up to 8 years. Their small size makes them vulnerable to predators and environmental challenges, but their adaptability and high reproductive rate help maintain stable populations.

Are Anna’s Hummingbirds endangered?

Currently, Anna’s Hummingbirds are not considered endangered. They are listed as a species of Least Concern by the IUCN due to their stable population trends and large range. In fact, their population has been increasing in recent years, partly due to their adaptability to urban and suburban environments. However, like all wildlife, they face challenges from habitat loss and climate change, so continued conservation efforts are important.

Conclusion

Anna’s Hummingbirds are truly remarkable creatures that captivate bird enthusiasts and casual observers alike. Their vibrant colors, unique behaviors, and adaptability make them a fascinating subject of study and observation. From their iridescent feathers to their acrobatic flight patterns, these tiny birds never fail to amaze.

By understanding their characteristics, habitat needs, and behaviors, we can better appreciate and protect these dazzling birds. Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or simply enjoy the beauty of nature in your backyard, creating a welcoming environment for Anna’s Hummingbirds can bring joy and wonder to your outdoor space.

Remember, every small effort to support these birds – from planting native flowers to setting up feeders – contributes to their conservation. As we continue to share our environments with Anna’s Hummingbirds, let’s strive to coexist harmoniously, ensuring that future generations can also experience the magic of these extraordinary birds.

So, the next time you see a flash of iridescent green and rose-red in your garden, take a moment to appreciate the marvel that is the Anna’s Hummingbird. These tiny creatures have big lessons to teach us about adaptability, resilience, and the intricate balance of nature.