Maine’s diverse habitats and vibrant flora create the perfect haven for a charming array of hummingbirds. These miniature aviators, known for their iridescent feathers and astonishing aerial agility, captivate bird watchers and nature lovers alike. The Ruby-Throated Hummingbird, the most prevalent in Maine, dazzles with its emerald green back and ruby-red throat, often seen darting among flowers in a mesmerizing display of agility.
On rarer occasions, the Rufous Hummingbird, with its striking copper hues, and the tiny Calliope Hummingbird, the smallest breeding bird in the U.S., grace the state with their presence.
These hummingbirds not only bring a burst of color to Maine’s serene landscapes but also play a crucial role in pollination, enhancing the natural beauty of the state. Observing these tiny, energetic birds is a heartening experience, encouraging all to pause and appreciate the intricate wonders of the natural world. Whether you’re an avid birder or a casual nature enthusiast, Maine’s hummingbirds offer a spectacle of beauty and wonder that’s hard to forget.
1. Ruby-Throated Hummingbird
- Scientific name: Archilochus colubris
- Life span: 3-5 years
- Size: 3-3.75 in (7.6-9.5 cm)
- Weight: 0.07 – 0.21 oz (2-6 g)
- Wingspan: 3.1-4.3 in (7.9 – 10.9 cm)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
The Ruby-Throated Hummingbird is the most common and widespread hummingbird in North America east of the Mississippi River. This vibrant species can be found from southern Canada to the Gulf of Mexico. During the breeding season, they are particularly prevalent in the eastern United States, including Maine.
The male Ruby-Throated Hummingbird is easily identifiable by its shimmering emerald green back and crown, paired with a striking, iridescent red throat, known as a gorget. In contrast, the female lacks the brilliant red throat, instead displaying a white throat and a more subdued green coloration overall. Both sexes have a forked tail with white tips, but the female’s tail feathers are rounded compared to the pointed ones of the male.
These tiny birds are remarkable for their aerial agility, often seen darting between flowers with rapid wing beats. Their rapid, hovering flight and dazzling plumage make them a delightful sight in gardens and wooded areas across their range.
The Ruby-Throated Hummingbird is a master architect of the avian world, weaving its tiny nest with remarkable precision and care. Typically, the female constructs the nest alone, selecting a sheltered location on a downward-sloping tree branch, often over water or along a woodland edge. She uses plant down, spider silk, and lichens to create a small, elastic cup that can stretch as her young grow.
The nest’s exterior is camouflaged with lichens, blending seamlessly with the surrounding environment. Nest building can take from six to ten days, during which the female meticulously weaves and shapes the nest to ensure it’s snug and secure. Once the eggs are laid, she diligently incubates them for about two weeks until they hatch.
These hummingbirds primarily feed on nectar from brightly colored, tubular flowers, which provides them with the necessary energy for their high metabolism and rapid wing beats. They are particularly fond of red and orange blossoms but will also visit a variety of other flowers. In addition to nectar, Ruby-Throated Hummingbirds consume small insects and spiders, which supply essential proteins and nutrients.
They are known to catch insects mid-air or pluck them from spider webs and plant surfaces. During their migration, they rely heavily on abundant nectar sources and feeders to fuel their long journeys.
The conservation history of the Ruby-Throated Hummingbird reflects broader efforts to protect and preserve migratory bird species in North America. Over the years, habitat loss and climate change have posed significant threats to their populations. Conservationists have focused on protecting critical breeding and feeding habitats by promoting the planting of native flowering plants and the maintenance of natural landscapes. Public education campaigns have encouraged homeowners to set up hummingbird feeders and plant nectar-rich gardens. Historically, the Ruby-Throated Hummingbird has benefited from international migratory bird treaties and protections under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
These measures have helped stabilize their populations, although continued vigilance is necessary to ensure their habitats are preserved amidst ongoing environmental changes. Efforts by organizations like the Audubon Society and local conservation groups play a crucial role in monitoring populations and promoting sustainable practices that support these dazzling birds.
2. Calliope Hummingbird
- Scientific name: Selasphorus calliope
- Life span: 3-7 years
- Size: 2.75-3.25 in (7.0 – 8.3 cm)
- Weight: 0.07 – 0.21 oz (2-6 g)
- Wingspan: 3.5-4.3 in (8.9 – 10.9 cm)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and rare
This diminutive bird breeds in the mountainous regions of the northwestern United States and southwestern Canada, migrating to Mexico for the winter. In Maine, it is a rare sight, usually seen only during migration. The male Calliope Hummingbird is distinguished by its vibrant magenta streaks that radiate from its throat, creating a dazzling display against its green upperparts and white underparts.
The female is more understated, with a white throat marked by faint streaks and greenish-brown upperparts. Both sexes have short tails that lack the forked appearance seen in some other hummingbird species. Their compact bodies and swift, agile flight patterns make them captivating to watch as they navigate through flowers in search of nectar.
Despite their small size, Calliope Hummingbirds are known for their boldness, often engaging in aerial acrobatics to assert dominance over feeding areas.
The female constructs her nest in sheltered locations within dense shrubs or coniferous trees, often choosing sites that offer protection from predators and harsh weather conditions. The nest is a tiny, cup-shaped structure made from plant down, spider silk, and lichen, which provides flexibility and strength. This elastic quality allows the nest to expand as the chicks grow.
The female typically lays two small white eggs and incubates them for about two weeks. She remains diligent and protective during this period, ensuring the eggs are kept warm and safe. The choice of nesting site is crucial, often near water sources or areas with abundant flowers, providing easy access to food once the chicks hatch. The Calliope Hummingbird’s nesting behavior is a testament to their resourcefulness and the intricate care they invest in raising their young.
These tiny birds primarily feed on nectar from flowers, favoring red and tubular blossoms, which provide the high-energy fuel needed for their rapid wing beats. Their long, specialized tongues allow them to extract nectar efficiently from deep within flowers. In addition to nectar, Calliope Hummingbirds consume small insects and spiders, which offer essential proteins and other nutrients. They catch insects mid-air or glean them from plants and spider webs, ensuring a balanced diet that supports their high metabolism. During migration, they rely heavily on abundant nectar sources and feeders to sustain their energy levels.
Conservation efforts for the Calliope Hummingbird are vital in the face of habitat loss and climate change. Historically, these birds have benefited from protections under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which has helped stabilize their numbers. Conservationists focus on preserving critical breeding and migratory habitats, ensuring the availability of food sources and safe nesting sites. Public education campaigns encourage the planting of native flowering plants and the installation of feeders to support these birds during migration.
Organizations like the Audubon Society actively monitor Calliope Hummingbird populations, advocating for habitat conservation and sustainable practices. These efforts are crucial in mitigating the impacts of environmental changes and ensuring the continued survival of this tiny yet resilient bird. The conservation history of the Calliope Hummingbird highlights the importance of community involvement and international cooperation in protecting migratory species.
3. Rufous Hummingbird
- Scientific name: Selasphorus rufus
- Life span: 3-5 years
- Size: 2.75-3.75 in (7.0 – 9.5 cm)
- Weight: 0.09 – 0.16 oz (2.5-4.5 g)
- Wingspan: 3.5-4.3 in (8.9 – 10.9 cm)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and rare
The Rufous Hummingbird is known for its extensive migratory journey, one of the longest of any hummingbird species. This tenacious traveler breeds as far north as Alaska and migrates to Mexico for the winter. The Rufous Hummingbird is easily recognized by its vivid rusty-orange coloring, which is prominent in males.
Males boast a bright orange back and belly, with a red-orange gorget that glows like a jewel in the sunlight. Females are slightly less vibrant, exhibiting greenish backs and a mix of orange and green on their flanks, with a more muted throat patch. Their tails are marked with iridescent orange feathers. Despite their small size, Rufous Hummingbirds are known for their aggressive nature, often seen fiercely defending their feeding territories from other birds.
In Maine, they are considered rare visitors, usually spotted during their migration periods. Their fiery plumage and feisty behavior make them a standout among hummingbird species.
Females select well-hidden locations in shrubs or trees to construct their nests, ensuring protection from predators and harsh weather conditions. The nest, a small cup-shaped structure, is crafted from plant down, moss, and spider silk, providing both flexibility and durability.
The silk allows the nest to expand as the chicks grow, while the exterior is camouflaged with lichens and other plant materials. Nesting usually begins in early spring, with the female laying two small white eggs. She incubates the eggs alone, showing remarkable dedication and patience.
This process, from nest construction to chick rearing, reflects the Rufous Hummingbird’s intricate care and resourcefulness. The carefully chosen nesting sites, often near abundant food sources, are crucial for the survival and growth of the young birds.
These birds are particularly drawn to red and orange tubular flowers, such as columbines and penstemons, from which they extract nectar using their specialized bills and long tongues. This nectar provides the sugar-rich fuel necessary for their rapid wing beats and agile flight. In addition to nectar, Rufous Hummingbirds consume small insects and spiders, which supply essential proteins and other nutrients.
They catch these insects mid-air or glean them from plants and spider webs. This varied diet supports their high metabolism and is especially critical during their extensive migratory journey, which spans from Alaska to Mexico.
Conservation efforts for the Rufous Hummingbird have focused on protecting their critical habitats and ensuring the availability of food sources along their migratory routes. Historically, habitat loss and climate change have posed significant threats to their populations. Conservationists have worked to safeguard breeding and feeding areas, with legal protections provided by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Public education campaigns have promoted the planting of native flowering plants and the installation of feeders to support these birds during migration.
Organizations like the Audubon Society monitor populations, advocate for sustainable practices, and engage in research to understand the needs of these hummingbirds better. These efforts have been crucial in stabilizing Rufous Hummingbird populations and ensuring their continued survival amidst environmental changes. The conservation story of the Rufous Hummingbird underscores the importance of coordinated efforts and community involvement in preserving this remarkable species.
Where to look for Hummingbirds in Maine
Maine is a wonderful place to spot hummingbirds, especially if you know where to look. To find these lively birds, focus on areas rich in flowering plants and feeders. Dawn and dusk are prime times to observe them as they feed vigorously.
One great spot is Acadia National Park, where trails like the Wild Gardens of Acadia offer prime viewing. Gilsland Farm Audubon Center in Falmouth is another excellent location, with its well-maintained gardens attracting hummingbirds. In Portland, the Fore River Sanctuary provides ample opportunities for sightings, especially around its flower-filled meadows. Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge in Baring also offers a great habitat with plenty of wildflowers and feeders.
To enhance your hummingbird-watching experience, bring along a pair of binoculars and a camera. Look for patches of vibrant flowers, as hummingbirds are attracted to bright colours. Setting up a feeder in your backyard with a mixture of sugar water can also lure these tiny visitors. Patience and a keen eye are key, as these birds are fast and often elusive.
Conclusion
Maine’s hummingbirds, from the common Ruby-Throated to the rare Rufous and Calliope, add vibrant splashes of color and energy to the state’s natural beauty. Their unique nesting behaviors, diverse diets, and the ongoing conservation efforts to protect their habitats highlight the delicate balance of nature.
Observing these tiny avian wonders provides a profound appreciation for Maine’s rich biodiversity and the critical importance of preserving it for future generations.