Types of Hummingbirds With Red Colors

Identifying hummingbirds in the field, typically takes sharp observation and a commitment to detail. Distinguishing between male and female hummingbirds is frequently difficult, although the male bird is invariably the more colorful of the two. The striking colors that you see in hummingbirds, stem from the placement of special cells within the bird's feathers. Unlike the case in other bird types, the light which strikes each cell, is broken up and wonderfully vivid colors are visible. These colors can, however, only be seen as light is shining on the feathers and it for this reason that hummingbirds appear to sport different colors in different light conditions.

  1. Ruby-throated Hummingbird

    • Although the ruby-throated hummingbird is mainly found in the eastern half of North America, this species is sighted sporadically in many states. The male bird is immediately identifiable because of his iridescent ruby red gorget or throat. Careful observation may be necessary, as the red gorget can appear black under certain lighting conditions. The ruby-throated hummingbird male is slightly smaller than his female. The average length of the ruby-throated hummingbird is three and a half inches.

    Allen's Hummingbird

    • The adult male Allen's hummingbird has an iridescent coppery-red gorget, while the female exhibits a white throat with red spots. Although this species has been sighted in many states, Allen's hummingbird is effectively a California bird, ranging from Ventura county up to southern Oregon. Select individuals, migrate between coastal California and Baja. This hummingbird creates a distinctive buzz with its short wings.

    Anna's Hummingbird

    • The Anna's male, sports a dark rose-red crown and gorget, which makes him reasonably easy to identify. The Anna's female, which is a slightly smaller bird than the male, has red spots on her white throat. This species is considered to be the most common hummingbird type in southern California. Anna's mating behavior, has been termed a pendulum dance, as the male bird flies back and forth, before plummeting toward his potential mate.

    Rufous

    • The adult male rufous has a bright orange-red gorget and white breast. This diminutive bird, which is less than four inches in length, spends much of its time perched near the flowers from which it feeds. The rufous hummingbird feeds from the flowers at the periphery of its territory each morning, depleting as much nectar as possible, before other humming birds are able to access it. Thereafter, the little bird which weighs less than a penny, concentrates on guarding nourishment in the center of its territory.