Texas Hummingbird Roundup:
Ruby-throated (Achilochus colubris)

Ruby-throated Hummingbird
(Achilochus colubris)
Artwork © 2005 TPWD

This is “the hummingbird” of the eastern United States. Although most states can record at least two species of hummingbird, for most of the population of the United States, the Ruby-throated is the species they know.

The Ruby-throated Hummingbird, is associated with mixed hardwood and pine forests, forest edges, clearings, orchards, and gardens but is seldom seen in urban areas. This is a bright colored, long tailed hummingbird.

Identifying Features (Male):

• Black chin over a red throat
• Long, deeply notched black tail
• Tail extends beyond tips of tapered wings
• Holds tail relatively still when hovering
• Short, straight, heavy bill

Identifying Features (Female):

• Short, straight, heavy bill
• Golden green back
• Usually green crown
• More contrasting head pattern than Black-chinned Hummingbird
• Tail projects beyond tip of tapered wings