If you are lucky enough to have a garden frequently visited by hummingbirds, then you’ve probably encountered some of the mesmerizing species I’m about to share today.
These magnificent creatures have captivated bird lovers for centuries, and I can understand why. Tiny, adorable, and with striking colors, the hummingbird is every garden lover’s favorite bird!
So join me as I introduce you to some beautiful hummingbird species only found in the United States!
1. Broad-Billed Hummingbird
The Broad-Billed Hummingbird has distinctive features such as the red bill and gorgeous emerald-colored feathers.
Mostly found in the Southwestern part of the United States, they will come to your garden in search of some native flowers and nectar. This little feathery beauty consumes 2 times its body weight in nectar, in just one day!
2. Violet-Crowned Hummingbird
You can see right from the picture, how this little bird got its name. A white throat and a violet ‘crown’ is what sets it apart from other hummingbirds.
Apart from the colors, the Violet-Crowned hummingbird is one of the biggest species of hummingbird. If nectar is in short supply, the Violet-Crowned hummingbird will boldly chase off smaller species to keep the nectar for itself!
3. Anna’s Hummingbird
This beauty is the most common species of hummingbird in the Southwestern part of the United States. They inhabit most of California and are simply breathtaking.
The pink feathers on the side of their heads have a gorgeous shimmer to them. Make sure to put a hummingbird feeder with some sugar water in your backyard to attract this gorgeous species.
4. Black-Chinned Hummingbird
The Black-Chinned hummingbird might not have the most striking colorful feathers, however, it’s even more common in the U.S. than the Anna’s Hummingbird.
The reason for this species to be so widespread is because of its ability to adapt. No matter if it’s an urban or rural area, the Black-Chinned hummingbirds will make it work.
5. Calliope Hummingbird
This gorgeous species has magenta-colored feathers on its throat, inhabits open woodlands, and is the smallest bird in the U.S.!
They weigh as much as a ping-pong ball! How adorable, am I right? The Calliope Hummingbird is found across the Western U.S.
6. Costa’s Hummingbird
Talk about a hairdo! This enchanting hummingbird has violet feathers that stick out to every possible side, making it look like they forgot their barber’s appointment!
Costa’s Hummingbird visits over 1,500 flowers each day to maintain its energy. What a busy little sky dweller!
7. Ruby-Throated Hummingbird
The Ruby-Throated Hummingbird is recognizable by its red-feathered throat and emerald-colored head. Unlike the rest of the hummingbirds on our list, the Ruby-Throated Hummingbird inhabits the Eastern part of the United States.
This tiny bird flaps its wings about 53 times per second! Incredible, isn’t it?
8. Black-Throated Magenta Hummingbird
Primarily found in southern Texas, the Black-throated Magenta Hummingbird boasts brilliant green and purple feathers. This species is particularly known for its vibrant magenta throat patch.
9. Western Emerald Hummingbird
While found mostly in Arizona and parts of Mexico, the Western Emerald Hummingbird’s shimmering emerald green feathers make it a visual treat for bird watchers.
Its iridescent plumage glistens in the sun, making it one of the most stunning hummingbirds in the U.S.
10. Berylline Hummingbird
Credit: Shutterstock
The Berylline Hummingbird is a rare visitor to the United States, primarily found in southeastern Arizona, especially in the Chiricahua Mountains and surrounding areas.
This species is more common in Mexico but occasionally crosses the border, making it a sought-after sighting for birdwatchers. It stands out with its iridescent green and bronze plumage, giving it a jewel-like appearance in the sunlight.
Unlike many hummingbirds that prefer gardens or open meadows, the Berylline Hummingbird is more at home in oak woodlands and canyon forests.
Unlike most hummingbirds, which primarily rely on nectar, the Berylline Hummingbird has a higher tendency to include small insects in its diet, making it a more versatile feeder.
11. White-Eared Hummingbird
Credit: Shutterstock
The White-eared Hummingbird is another rare hummingbird species seen in the southwestern United States, particularly in southeastern Arizona, New Mexico, and western Texas.
Birdwatchers hoping to spot this stunning hummingbird often head to Madera Canyon or the Huachuca Mountains in Arizona during the summer months. It is easily recognized by its vibrant green body, black head, and distinctive white stripe behind the eye, which gives it its name.
This species thrives in pine-oak forests and mountainous regions, where it hovers around flowering plants.
The White-eared Hummingbird is one of the few hummingbirds known to produce a high-pitched “chip-chip” sound, making it easier to detect even before it’s seen.