Hummingbirds are nature’s tiny, shimmering jewels, with each species unique to its region. In the U.S., you can find an incredible variety of these vibrant, fast-beating wonders.
Whether you’re a birdwatcher or just someone who loves a splash of color, these hummingbirds are a sight to behold.
1. Anna’s Hummingbird
Ever seen a bird that can hover like a tiny helicopter? Meet the Anna’s Hummingbird, a resident of the West Coast.
Its iridescent green plumage and pink throat are a feast for the eyes. These little wonders are tough too, sticking around even during chilly winters, adding a splash of color to gray days.
2. Ruby-Throated Hummingbird
The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is the superstar of the eastern U.S. With a flash of its red throat, it zooms around gardens like a tiny, feathered lightning bolt.
Their long migrations from Canada to Central America are nothing short of epic.
3. Black-Chinned Hummingbird
In the arid landscapes of the Southwest, the Black-chinned Hummingbird is a master of survival. Its black and purple throat patches catch the desert sun, creating a visual spectacle.
These adaptable little birds show us how to live where others can’t, thriving in challenging conditions.
4. Rufous Hummingbird
The Rufous Hummingbird might just win the award for most tenacious traveler. Its migration is one of the longest, stretching from Alaska to Mexico.
With its fiery orange plumage, it’s like a living ember flitting through the lush forests of the Pacific Northwest.
5. Costa’s Hummingbird
Imagine a bird with a crown of vibrant purple. That’s Costa’s Hummingbird, dazzling in the desert sun.
Found mostly in the Southwest, it thrives in arid conditions, adding a splash of color to the sandy backdrop.
6. Broad-Tailed Hummingbird
Listen closely in the Rockies, and you might hear the musical trill of the Broad-tailed Hummingbird’s wings. This mountain dweller sports a rosy-pink throat and glistens in the high-altitude sunlight.
Their aerial acrobatics and melodic wingbeats make them the jewels of the mountain skies.
7. Allen’s Hummingbird
Allen’s Hummingbirds are coastal beauties, dazzling with their coppery-orange plumage. Found mainly in California, these agile fliers are known for their quick, darting movements among the coastal flora.
Watching them is like witnessing a ballet of color and grace in the garden.
8. Calliope Hummingbird
Meet the Calliope Hummingbird, the smallest bird in the U.S. Despite its size, it’s a mighty traveler, gracing the western mountains with its vivid magenta throat.
Its petite form and vibrant colors add a touch of magic to the high-altitude meadows.
9. Violet-Crowned Hummingbird
With a crown of violet, the Violet-crowned Hummingbird is a regal presence in the southwestern U.S. Its striking color contrast of violet and white creates a visual masterpiece.
These birds often visit feeders, gracing gardens with their enchanting presence and gentle demeanor.
10. Broad-Billed Hummingbird
The Broad-billed Hummingbird is a desert delight with its striking blue and green plumage. Found primarily in the Southwest, this bird’s vivid hues sparkle against the backdrop of desert flora.
Its presence is a reminder of the diversity and beauty thriving in arid landscapes.
11. Buff-Bellied Hummingbird
A warm buff belly and shimmering green back make the Buff-bellied Hummingbird a true gem of the South. Colorful feathers catch the sunlight as it darts from bloom to bloom.
Tropical vibes follow this tiny bird wherever it goes, especially in the gardens of Texas.
12. Lucifer Hummingbird
A curved bill and glowing purple throat set the Lucifer Hummingbird apart as a true desert marvel. Rare sightings in the Chihuahuan Desert thrill bird lovers lucky enough to spot one.
Bold colors and a mystical name add to the allure of this tiny, elusive flier.
13. Magnificent Hummingbird
True to its name, the Magnificent Hummingbird is a spectacle in metallic green and blue. Found in the mountains of Arizona, this hummingbird’s grandeur is unmatched.
Its shimmering colors and large size make it a standout among its smaller cousins.
14. Green Violet-Ear Hummingbird
Emerald and sapphire tones shimmer across the Green Violet-ear’s feathers, creating a truly dazzling display. Visits to Texas are rare but unforgettable, bringing a flash of vibrant color to the region.
A tropical feel follows this hummingbird wherever it goes, brightening gardens with every flutter.
15. White-Eared Hummingbird
A bold white stripe behind the eye gives the White-eared Hummingbird its name and instant charm. Forests in New Mexico offer the perfect backdrop for this vivid green beauty.
Spotting one feels like uncovering a hidden treasure in the shade of the pines.