North Carolina is a hidden gem for hummingbird enthusiasts. With its lush landscapes and diverse habitats, the state offers a haven for these tiny, vibrant birds. Among the most captivating visitors are the Ruby-throated Hummingbird, the only species that breeds in the eastern U.S., bringing a splash of iridescent red to the gardens and forests.
Alongside them, the Rufous Hummingbird, known for its fiery orange plumage and feisty nature, occasionally graces the area during migration. The Black-chinned Hummingbird, though rare, adds a touch of mystery with its sleek black throat. Lastly, the petite Calliope Hummingbird, the smallest of all, charms bird watchers with its delicate beauty.
Each of these species contributes to the magical experience of birdwatching in North Carolina, making it a must-visit destination for anyone fascinated by these remarkable creatures. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a curious newcomer, the hummingbirds of North Carolina are sure to delight.
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 delightful sight for birdwatchers across North America. This species primarily breeds in the eastern United States and parts of southern Canada, making long migrations to Central America for the winter. Male Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are especially striking, with a vibrant red throat, or gorget, that shimmers in the sunlight, contrasting with their metallic green back and white underparts.
Females lack the ruby throat, instead sporting a more subdued palette of green and white. These tiny birds are often seen flitting around gardens and wooded areas, drawn to the nectar of flowering plants. With their rapid wing beats and agile flight, they hover with ease, creating a fascinating spectacle.
Their range extends from the Gulf Coast up to the Canadian border, making them a familiar summer visitor in many regions. The Ruby-throated Hummingbird’s beautiful coloration and energetic presence make it a favorite among bird enthusiasts and a symbol of the vibrant life of North American summers.
Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are meticulous builders, often choosing the slender branches of deciduous trees to construct their nests. These tiny, cup-shaped nests are made from plant down and spider silk, which provides both flexibility and strength. Females are solely responsible for nest construction, which can take up to a week to complete.
The nests are often camouflaged with lichen and moss, blending seamlessly with the surroundings. Once the nest is built, the female lays two tiny, white eggs. She incubates them for about two weeks, and upon hatching, she feeds the chicks a diet of regurgitated insects and nectar. The young fledge approximately three weeks after hatching, embarking on their first flight under the watchful eye of their mother.
These birds primarily feed on nectar from brightly colored, tubular flowers such as honeysuckle, trumpet creeper, and bee balm. Their long, specialized tongues allow them to extract nectar efficiently. In addition to nectar, they consume small insects and spiders, which provide essential proteins and nutrients.
During the breeding season, their diet shifts slightly to include more insects, ensuring they have enough energy to care for their young. Hummingbird feeders filled with a mixture of sugar and water also attract these energetic birds, supplementing their natural diet and providing a reliable food source during migration.
Conservation efforts for Ruby-throated Hummingbirds focus on habitat preservation and public awareness. Historically, these birds have thrived in a range of habitats, from forests to suburban gardens. However, habitat loss due to deforestation and urban development poses a threat. Organizations like the Audubon Society promote the planting of native flowering plants and the use of hummingbird feeders to support local populations.
Educational programs aim to inform the public about the importance of creating bird-friendly environments. Monitoring programs track migration patterns and population trends, helping to identify critical habitats that require protection. These combined efforts ensure that Ruby-throated Hummingbirds continue to grace gardens and forests with their dazzling presence.
2. Calliope Hummingbird
- Scientific name: Selasphorus calliope
- Life span: 3-7 years
- Size: 2.75-3.25 in
- Weight: 2-4 g
- Wingspan: 3.5-4.3 in
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and rare
The Calliope Hummingbird is the smallest bird in the United States, yet it boasts an impressive range and striking appearance. This species breeds in the mountainous regions of the northwestern United States and southwestern Canada, migrating to the southwestern United States and Mexico for the winter.
Males are particularly eye-catching, with a radiant magenta gorget that contrasts beautifully with their glossy green back and white underparts. Females are more understated, featuring a green back and a whitish underside with some faint streaking on the throat. These tiny birds are often found in high-altitude meadows and open forests, where they perform intricate aerial displays during courtship.
Despite their small size, Calliope Hummingbirds undertake a remarkable migration journey, covering thousands of miles. Their presence is a delightful highlight for birdwatchers, who appreciate their vibrant colors and dynamic flight patterns. The Calliope Hummingbird’s unique charm and extensive migratory route make it a remarkable member of the hummingbird family.
They typically build their nests in high-altitude meadows and open forests, choosing sheltered spots like the branches of evergreen trees. The female is responsible for constructing the nest, which she weaves from plant down, spider silk, and lichen, making it both flexible and strong.
These nests are small and well-camouflaged, often reused or built upon in subsequent years. The female lays two eggs and incubates them for about 15-16 days. After hatching, the chicks are fed a mixture of insects and nectar, growing rapidly before fledging at around three weeks old.
The diet of Calliope Hummingbirds is as diverse as their migratory range. These birds primarily feed on nectar from flowering plants such as red columbine, paintbrush, and fireweed. Their long, specialized tongues allow them to efficiently extract nectar while hovering. In addition to nectar, they consume small insects and spiders, which provide essential protein and nutrients, particularly during the breeding season.
These hummingbirds also visit feeders, especially during migration, where they sip sugar water mixtures. Their feeding habits are characterized by swift, darting movements as they move from flower to flower or feeder, ensuring they meet their high-energy needs.
Conservation efforts for Calliope Hummingbirds focus on habitat preservation and public education. Historically, these birds have been affected by habitat loss due to logging and land development in their breeding and migratory ranges. Conservation organizations promote the protection of high-altitude meadows and the planting of native flowering plants to support their feeding needs.
Research and monitoring programs track population trends and migration routes, providing valuable data for conservation planning. Public awareness campaigns highlight the importance of these tiny but mighty birds, encouraging actions to create bird-friendly environments. These efforts aim to ensure that Calliope Hummingbirds continue to thrive across their extensive range.
3. 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 renowned for its remarkable long-distance migration and vivid coloring. This species breeds in the northwestern United States and western Canada, extending up to southern Alaska, before traveling to Mexico for the winter. The male Rufous Hummingbird is easily recognizable by its brilliant orange-red plumage, covering its back and flanks, with a gleaming red throat and a white chest.
Females, though less vibrant, still display a mix of green and rusty tones. These birds are often observed in open woodlands, mountain meadows, and even backyards during migration periods. Their feisty nature makes them territorial, often seen chasing away other hummingbirds from feeders or flowers.
The Rufous Hummingbird’s extensive migratory route, which includes parts of the Rocky Mountains and coastal regions, highlights its incredible endurance and adaptability. Bird watchers along the Pacific Northwest and those lucky enough to spot them during migration can witness their spectacular display of agility and color.
Rufous Hummingbirds are known for their territorial nature, especially during nesting season. They prefer to build their nests in sheltered locations, often in coniferous or mixed forests. The female constructs the nest from soft plant fibers, moss, and lichen, binding it together with spider silk. These nests are typically located on low, drooping branches, well-hidden from predators.
The female lays two eggs and incubates them alone, fiercely defending the nest site from intruders. The chicks hatch after about two weeks and are fed a steady diet of insects and nectar. After approximately three weeks, the fledglings leave the nest, but the female continues to care for them until they can fend for themselves.
The Rufous Hummingbird has a diverse diet that includes nectar and insects. They are particularly fond of red and orange tubular flowers, such as columbine, penstemon, and Indian paintbrush. Their diet is supplemented by small insects and spiders, which they catch in flight or pick from leaves and bark.
During migration, they rely heavily on hummingbird feeders, which provide a consistent source of energy. The Rufous Hummingbird’s high metabolism requires them to feed frequently, and they can often be seen aggressively defending their feeding territories from other hummingbirds and insects.
Conservation efforts for the Rufous Hummingbird focus on habitat preservation and monitoring migration patterns. Historically, these birds have faced challenges due to habitat loss from logging and land development. Conservation organizations work to protect critical breeding and migration habitats by promoting the preservation of native plant species and the creation of hummingbird-friendly gardens.
Tracking programs using banding and citizen science initiatives help gather data on migration routes and population trends. Public education campaigns raise awareness about the importance of these tiny migrants and encourage actions to support their survival. Despite challenges, concerted efforts continue to ensure that Rufous Hummingbirds thrive across their range.
4. Black-Chinned Hummingbird
- Scientific name: Archilochus alexandri
- Life span: 3-6 years
- Size: 3-4 in
- Weight: 2.5-4.5 g
- Wingspan: 4.3-5.1 in
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and rare
The Black-chinned Hummingbird is a fascinating species known for its widespread range and distinctive features. These birds primarily breed in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, with some extending their range as far north as the central United States during the summer.
Males are easily identified by their black throat, highlighted with a narrow strip of iridescent purple at the base, set against a backdrop of metallic green on their back and grayish-white underparts. Females and juveniles are less vividly coloured, presenting a more subdued green and white appearance. These hummingbirds are adaptable, thriving in diverse habitats ranging from deserts and scrublands to urban gardens and riparian zones.
During their migration, they can sometimes be seen in areas outside their usual range, including parts of the southeastern United States. The Black-chinned Hummingbird’s subtle beauty and widespread presence make it a delightful sight for bird enthusiasts across various landscapes.
Black-chinned Hummingbirds exhibit fascinating nesting behavior, often choosing sheltered locations in riparian woodlands, canyons, and suburban areas. The female constructs a small, cup-shaped nest using plant down, spider silk, and other soft materials. These nests are usually placed on horizontal branches, often over water or shaded areas.
The construction process can take up to ten days. Once completed, the female lays two tiny eggs and incubates them for about 12-16 days. After hatching, the chicks are fed a diet of insects and nectar. The young birds fledge about three weeks later, learning to navigate and feed under the guidance of their mother.
The diet of Black-chinned Hummingbirds is primarily composed of nectar from a variety of flowering plants, such as red yucca, trumpet vine, and agave. They also consume small insects and spiders, which are essential sources of protein, especially during the breeding season.
These hummingbirds are frequent visitors to backyard feeders, where they eagerly sip sugar water solutions. Their feeding behavior is marked by quick, darting movements as they hover in front of flowers or feeders. This diet supports their high-energy lifestyle, allowing them to maintain their rapid wing beats and agile flight patterns.
Conservation efforts for Black-chinned Hummingbirds are centered on habitat protection and research. Historically, these birds have been affected by habitat degradation due to urban expansion and water management practices. Conservation organizations work to protect and restore riparian habitats, which are crucial for their nesting and feeding.
Research programs monitor their population trends and migration patterns to better understand their ecological needs. Public outreach initiatives encourage the planting of native flowering plants and the use of bird-friendly practices in landscaping. These efforts aim to create a supportive environment for Black-chinned Hummingbirds, ensuring their continued presence in both natural and suburban settings.
Where to look for Hummingbirds in North Carolina
North Carolina is a fantastic place to spot hummingbirds, thanks to its rich variety of habitats and mild climate. To find these dazzling birds, head out during the early morning or late afternoon when they are most active. Bring a pair of binoculars and a good field guide, and be prepared to be patient; hummingbirds are small and quick, but incredibly rewarding to watch.
One of the best spots to see hummingbirds is the North Carolina Botanical Garden in Chapel Hill. With its abundant native flowers and well-maintained trails, it’s a hummingbird haven. Another prime location is Grandfather Mountain, known for its high-altitude flora that attracts different species of hummingbirds, especially during migration.
For a coastal experience, visit the Elizabethan Gardens on Roanoke Island. The garden’s vibrant flowers and tranquil setting make it a perfect place for hummingbird watching. Lastly, Crowders Mountain State Park offers a rugged landscape where you can find these tiny birds flitting among wildflowers and wooded areas.
To increase your chances, plant nectar-rich flowers like trumpet vine, bee balm, and salvia in your garden, or hang a sugar-water feeder. Remember to keep your distance and move slowly to avoid startling these delicate creatures. With a little patience and the right spot, you’ll be rewarded with the magical sight of hummingbirds in their natural habitat.
Conclusion
North Carolina’s diverse habitats make it a paradise for hummingbird enthusiasts. From the common Ruby-throated to the rare Rufous, these vibrant birds add a touch of magic to the state’s natural beauty. Encouraging conservation efforts ensures these captivating creatures continue to enchant future generations.
