Hummingbirds in Iowa (With Pictures)

Iowa, often celebrated for its lush farmlands and serene landscapes, is also home to a tiny marvel of the avian world – the hummingbird. While not the first creature that comes to mind in the Heartland, these iridescent and incredibly agile birds bring a vibrant burst of colour and energy to Iowa’s natural canvas.

Hummingbirds, with their jewel-like plumage and lightning-fast wingbeats, have long captivated the fascination of birdwatchers and nature lovers across the state. They are more than just charming visitors; they are vital pollinators, playing a crucial role in Iowa’s ecosystems.

In this article, we embark on a journey to uncover the enchanting world of hummingbirds in Iowa. We will delve into their unique characteristics, migratory patterns, preferred habitats, and the essential role they play in maintaining the delicate balance of our local flora. Join us as we explore the captivating and often surprising lives of these diminutive yet extraordinary creatures that call Iowa home.

1. Ruby-Throated Hummingbird

• Scientific name: Archilochus colubris
• Life span: 3-5 years
• Size: 3-3.75 in
• Weight: 2-6 g
• Wingspan: 3.1-4.3 in
• Status: Least Concern
• State status: Breeding and common

The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is a strikingly vibrant and tiny bird, native to North America. This iridescent jewel is renowned for its stunning emerald green plumage, iridescent red gorget (throat), and a white chest that contrasts brilliantly with its metallic hues. As its name suggests, the male of this species boasts a dazzling ruby-red throat patch, which catches the sunlight in a mesmerizing display.

Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are predominantly found in eastern and central North America during the breeding season, spanning from southern Canada to the Gulf of Mexico. Their migratory journeys lead them across the Gulf of Mexico to spend winters in Central America.

Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are exceptional architects when it comes to building their nests. These tiny aerial wonders create intricate and delicate structures that seem almost magical. Constructed using soft plant materials, spider silk, and feathers, their nests are camouflaged with lichen, making them blend seamlessly with the surrounding foliage.

Remarkably, they often choose to nest in trees or shrubs, perching a mere 10 to 20 feet above the ground. These master builders lay their precious eggs, typically two, within the snug confines of the nest, ensuring the safety and warmth required for the vulnerable hatchlings. The female diligently tends to her offspring, feeding them a diet of regurgitated nectar and insects until they are ready to fledge.

Witnessing the meticulous craftsmanship of a Ruby-throated Hummingbird’s nest is a testament to the marvels of nature.

Their primary source of energy comes from nectar, which they extract with their specialized long, tubular tongues from a variety of flowers. Their penchant for vibrant red and orange blooms makes them excellent pollinators, contributing significantly to the plant ecosystem. To supplement their nectar intake, these hummingbirds are skilled insect hunters.

Their sharp beaks and agile flight allow them to snatch insects mid-air or glean them from leaves and branches. Their diet is a delicate balance of sweetness and protein, enabling these tiny birds to maintain their astonishing energy levels.

The Ruby-throated Hummingbird, while not listed as a threatened species, benefits from general conservation efforts aimed at preserving biodiversity and habitats. Their population is influenced by habitat loss and the availability of suitable nectar sources, which underscores the importance of maintaining natural landscapes and gardens with nectar-rich flowers.

Conservationists and backyard bird enthusiasts often provide supplementary nectar feeders to support these tiny birds, especially during migration and breeding seasons. By raising awareness about the significance of preserving their habitats and offering nectar sources, communities contribute to the well-being of Ruby-throated Hummingbirds and ensure future generations can marvel at their dazzling presence.

2. Rufous Hummingbird

• Scientific name: Selasphorus rufus
• Life span: 3-5 years
• Size: 2.75-3.75 in
• Weight: 2.5-4.5 g
• Wingspan: 3.5-4.3 in
• Status: Least Concern
• State status: Migratory and rare       

The Rufous Hummingbird is a petite, fiery-hued bird known for its intense orange-red plumage. Measuring just about three to four inches in length, this species is native to western North America. During the breeding season, they inhabit a broad range, from southeastern Alaska through western Canada to the mountainous regions of the western United States. Their striking colouration, with males sporting a vibrant coppery-orange throat and females displaying a more subdued greenish-gold plumage, makes them a standout in the hummingbird world. Come autumn, Rufous Hummingbirds embark on one of the longest migratory journeys of any hummingbird species, travelling southward to their wintering grounds in Mexico and Central America.

The Rufous Hummingbird, despite its small size, exhibits remarkable nesting behaviour that showcases their adaptability and tenacity. These birds are known for selecting a variety of nesting sites, including conifers, deciduous trees, and even shrubs.

They construct their nests with a blend of moss, lichen, and plant down, providing a snug and well-insulated home for their eggs. Intriguingly, Rufous Hummingbirds often weave spider silk into their nests, adding a degree of flexibility and strength to the structure. Their nests are typically situated at varying heights, from just a few feet above the ground to over 40 feet high in trees, making each nest a unique architectural marvel.

The female meticulously incubates her eggs, ensuring a safe and warm environment for the future hatchlings. Witnessing the resourcefulness and adaptability in their nest-building process is a testament to the Rufous Hummingbird’s ingenuity.

Like other hummingbirds, nectar is central to their diet, which they avidly collect from a wide range of wildflowers, garden blooms, and hummingbird feeders. Their exceptional hovering ability, combined with their specialized long bills and tongues, allows them to efficiently extract nectar from tubular flowers.

This feeding behaviour not only sustains them but also makes them vital pollinators, contributing to the health of various plant species. In addition to nectar, Rufous Hummingbirds supplement their diet with insects and spiders, adding a protein-rich component to their meals. Their sharp beaks and agile flight enable them to snatch insects mid-air or pluck them from leaves, displaying their exceptional hunting skills.

Observing their feeding frenzy amid a colourful floral landscape is a sight to behold for nature enthusiasts.

The Rufous Hummingbird, while not currently listed as a threatened species, faces challenges related to habitat loss and climate change. Conservation efforts aimed at preserving their habitats and providing supplemental nectar sources are essential for their well-being. Many individuals and organizations engage in hummingbird-friendly gardening practices by planting nectar-rich flowers and hanging hummingbird feeders.

Citizen science initiatives, such as monitoring their migration patterns, contribute valuable data for conservation efforts. By raising awareness about the importance of maintaining suitable habitats and food sources, communities play a crucial role in ensuring the continued survival and enjoyment of Rufous Hummingbirds.

3. Anna’s Hummingbird

• Scientific name: Calypte anna
• Life span: 4-6 years
• Size: 3.9-4.3 in
• Weight: 2-6 g
• Wingspan: 4.7-5.9 in
• Status: Least Concern
• State status: Migratory and rare       

Anna’s Hummingbird is a dazzling resident of the western coast of North America. These petite birds, measuring about four to five inches in length, are renowned for their striking and iridescent plumage. The males feature vibrant metallic rose-pink throats and crowns, which shimmer brilliantly in the sunlight. This species is native to the western United States, ranging from southern Alaska down to Baja California in Mexico.

Remarkably adaptable, they have successfully adapted to urban environments, where they often breed year-round, thanks to the temperate coastal climates. Anna’s Hummingbirds are known for their remarkable aerial displays, darting and hovering in intricate patterns, and their distinctive vocalizations that resonate throughout their coastal habitats.

Anna’s Hummingbirds are known for their distinctive nesting behaviour, which sets them apart in the avian world. These birds exhibit remarkable adaptability by choosing a wide range of nesting sites, including trees, shrubs, and even urban gardens. Their nests are intricately constructed using plant material, spider silk, and downy feathers, creating a well-insulated and secure haven for their eggs.

What sets them apart is their preference for adding bits of lichen to the exterior of their nests, creating a unique and cryptic appearance that blends seamlessly with the surrounding environment. The female incubates her eggs with utmost dedication, ensuring a warm and safe environment for the soon-to-be hatchlings. Observing the resourcefulness and adaptability in their nest-building process is a testament to Anna’s Hummingbird’s ability to thrive in diverse habitats.

Their primary source of sustenance is nectar, which they extract from a wide variety of flowering plants, especially those with red or orange blooms. Their specialized long bills and extendable, tube-like tongues allow them to access nectar deep within tubular flowers. This feeding behaviour not only nourishes them but also plays a vital role in pollinating these plants, benefiting both the birds and their floral hosts.

To supplement their diet with essential protein, Anna’s Hummingbirds actively hunt for insects and spiders, displaying impressive agility and precision during their mid-air chases.

Anna’s Hummingbirds, despite their adaptability to urban environments, still face challenges related to habitat loss and climate change. Conservation efforts focus on preserving their natural habitats and ensuring an ample supply of nectar-rich flowers. Many individuals and communities contribute to hummingbird-friendly gardening practices by planting native flowers and providing hummingbird feeders.

Citizen science initiatives, such as monitoring their nesting behaviours and population trends, offer valuable insights for conservation. By raising awareness about the significance of preserving their habitats and food sources, communities play a pivotal role in securing the future of Anna’s Hummingbirds and their continued presence as charismatic urban dwellers.

4. Broad-billed Hummingbird

• Scientific name: Cynanthus latirostris
• Life span: 5-7 years
• Size: 3.5-4.3 in
• Weight: 3-5 g
• Wingspan: 4.7-5.5 in
• Status: Least Concern
• State status: Migratory and rare       

The Broad-billed Hummingbird is a striking and distinctive hummingbird species found primarily in the southwestern United States and parts of Mexico. Measuring approximately three and a half inches in length, these diminutive birds exhibit a captivating blend of iridescent colours.

Males are known for their stunning cobalt-blue throats and tails, which contrast sharply with their vibrant green bodies. A vibrant red bill with a black tip adds to their allure. Broad-billed Hummingbirds prefer habitats like desert canyons and riparian areas, where they forage on nectar from a variety of flowers.

While primarily a resident in Mexico, they migrate northward into the southwestern United States, including Arizona and New Mexico, during the breeding season. Their striking appearance and unique range make them a sought-after sighting for birdwatchers in the American Southwest.

The Broad-billed Hummingbird is an avian artist when it comes to nesting. These birds construct their nests with meticulous care, using a combination of plant material, spider silk, and downy feathers. What sets them apart is their fondness for adorning the exterior of their nests with bits of lichen, creating a stunning mosaic-like appearance that blends harmoniously with the surrounding foliage.

These nests are often situated at varying heights, from a few feet above the ground to higher branches or even the horizontal limbs of trees. Their versatile nesting choices reflect their adaptability to diverse habitats, making each nest a testament to nature’s artistry. The female takes on the role of a devoted guardian, incubating her eggs with unwavering care, ensuring their safety and warmth until they are ready to hatch.

Witnessing the intricate craftsmanship of a Broad-billed Hummingbird’s nest is an awe-inspiring experience that highlights the beauty of their natural world.

Their primary source of sustenance is nectar, which they extract from various wildflowers and garden blooms with their specialized long bills and extendable, tube-like tongues. Their affinity for vibrant red or orange flowers makes them excellent pollinators, facilitating the reproduction of numerous plant species.

In addition to nectar, these hummingbirds actively hunt insects and spiders to supplement their diet with essential proteins. Their agile flight and sharp beaks enable them to catch insects in mid-air or glean them from leaves and branches, showcasing their adept hunting skills.

While not listed as a threatened species, the Broad-billed Hummingbird benefits from conservation efforts aimed at preserving their habitats and ensuring a stable food supply. The preservation of natural landscapes with nectar-rich flowers and the provision of hummingbird feeders are essential for their well-being.

Many individuals and communities actively engage in hummingbird-friendly gardening practices by planting native flowers that attract these marvelous birds. Citizen science initiatives, such as tracking their migration patterns and observing nesting behaviours, contribute valuable data for conservation efforts.

By raising awareness about the importance of maintaining suitable habitats and food sources, communities play a vital role in securing the continued presence of Broad-billed Hummingbirds, allowing future generations to marvel at their captivating presence in the wild.

Where to look for Hummingbirds in Iowa

These tiny, jewel-like creatures can be found throughout the state during their summer breeding season. Here’s how to find and enjoy these avian wonders in Iowa:

• Choose the Right Season: Hummingbirds typically arrive in Iowa during late spring, around April or May, and stay until early fall, departing in September or October. To witness their vibrant presence, plan your birdwatching adventures during this window.
• Create a Welcoming Environment: Hummingbirds are drawn to colourful, tubular flowers. Consider planting a hummingbird-friendly garden filled with red, orange, and pink blooms such as bee balm, salvia, and trumpet vine. Hanging hummingbird feeders filled with a sugar-water solution (four parts water to one part sugar) can also attract these tiny marvels.
• Strategic Observation: Find a comfortable spot with a clear view of your garden or hummingbird feeder. Bring binoculars and a field guide to help with identification.

Four Excellent Spots in Iowa:

• Iowa City: The city’s numerous parks, such as Hickory Hill Park and Terry Trueblood Recreation Area, provide excellent opportunities for hummingbird sightings.
• Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens: This lush oasis is a haven for hummingbirds amidst its colourful gardens.
• Yellow River State Forest: Explore the forest’s diverse habitats and trails, offering encounters with these tiny wonders.
• Des Moines Botanical Garden: The botanical garden’s vibrant floral displays attract hummingbirds, making it an ideal spot for birdwatchers.

Conclusion

In the heart of Iowa, the delicate and iridescent hummingbirds bring a touch of magic to the natural world. Their vibrant presence and astonishing aerial displays are a testament to the state’s rich biodiversity.

By nurturing hummingbird-friendly habitats and embracing the joy of birdwatching, Iowans can play a vital role in preserving these enchanting creatures for generations to come. So, as you savour the beauty of Iowa’s landscapes, keep an eye out for the tiny, jewel-toned wonders that grace our gardens and skies, adding a dash of colour to our lives.