Hummingbirds are some of the most beautiful and vibrant birds in the animal kingdom. Known for their dazzling colors and gentle hovering, they bring a sense of wonder to wherever they go. There are eight general types of hummingbirds in Idaho that can be found around the state. Each species has its own unique characteristics, making them all worth seeking out.
Idaho Region
Idaho is one of the most underrated states in America. Idaho’s picturesque landscapes, delectable culinary experiences, and engaging outdoor recreation make it a highly sought-after destination that lures visitors from far and wide. No wonder so many people are choosing to explore this beautiful state for their next holiday.
Idaho is home to some of the most diverse hummingbird species in the United States. The ruby-throated hummingbird, the colubris ruby-throated hummingbird, the black-chinned hummingbird, and the rufous hummingbird can all be spotted in Idaho.
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8 Types Of Hummingbirds In Idaho
Let’s take a look at eight types of hummingbirds in Idaho.
1. The Calliope Hummingbird
The Calliope Hummingbird is one of the smallest birds in North America, with adult birds only growing up to 3 inches long! It has a brilliant green back and white underside with purple feathers on its head and throat. It’s found throughout Idaho during migration season (May through August) but primarily stays near mountain ranges or areas.
Characteristics
Calliope hummingbirds are very territorial and will defend their space vociferously. They have an excellent sense of sight and can spot a predator from far away. These birds are also very curious and will often investigate whatever is happening in their environment, including humans. The male calliope hummingbirds are very aggressive when it comes to finding a mate and will often fight with other males for access to the female calliope hummingbirds.
2. The Broad-Tailed Hummingbird
The Broad-tailed Hummingbird has a beautiful green back with an orangey-red throat and tail. It’s slightly bigger than the Calliope Hummingbird, growing up to 4 inches long. This species can be found during migration season in all areas of Idaho except the northwest corner.
Characteristics
Broad-Tailed hummingbirds have a distinctive call that sounds like “chee-up!” They are relatively docile compared to other hummingbirds and don’t mind having people around as they go about their business gathering nectar from flowers. They love to hover near humans and are easily enticed by a sweet treat.
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3. The Rufous Hummingbird
The Rufous Hummingbird is one of the most common hummingbirds in Idaho. It has an orangey-brown back and breast, a white belly, and long tail feathers that have speckles of green and purple at their tips. This species can be found in most parts of the state during migration season (May through August). Both male rufous hummingbirds and female rufous hummingbirds have the same coloration. Rufous hummingbird’s scientific name is Selasphorus Rufus.
Characteristics
Rufous hummingbirds are known for their feistiness, often engaging in territorial fights with other birds or animals that come too close to their space. They have excellent vision and can spot predators from great distances. These birds also have an incredible memory and will remember their favorite flowers and nectar sources.
4. The Violet-Crowned Hummingbird
The Violet-crowned Hummingbird is a medium-sized hummingbird with an iridescent green back and white breasts. It has a distinctive violet crown that can be seen from far away. This species can be found in Idaho during the migration season (May through August).
Characteristics
Violet-Crowned hummingbirds are very curious and will often investigate whatever is happening in their environment, including humans. They have excellent vision and can spot predators from great distances. They also have an incredible memory and will remember their favorite flowers and nectar sources.
5. The Black-Chinned Hummingbird
The Black-chinned Hummingbird is one of the most common hummingbirds in Idaho, with its recognizable black chin, white throat, and greenback. It can be found during migration season (May through August) throughout the state.
Characteristics
Black-chinned hummingbirds have a loud chirp that sounds like “chip!” They are very territorial and will defend their space vociferously. They have excellent vision and can spot predators from great distances. These birds also have an incredible memory and will remember their favorite flowers and nectar sources. They love to hover near humans and are easily enticed by a sweet treat.
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6. Anna’s Hummingbird
Anna’s Hummingbird is one of the most common hummingbirds in Idaho, with its bright green back and pinkish-red gorget. It can be found during migration season (May through August) throughout the state.
Characteristics
Anna’s hummingbirds have a loud chirp that sounds like “thee-up!” They are relatively docile compared to other hummingbirds and don’t mind having people around as they go about their business gathering nectar from flowers. These birds also have an excellent sense of sight and can spot predators from great distances. They love to hover near humans and are easily enticed by a sweet treat.
7. White-Eared Hummingbird
The White-eared Hummingbird is a medium-sized hummingbird with an iridescent green back and white breasts. It has a distinctive white streak behind its eyes that can be seen from far away. This species can be found in most parts of the state during migration season (May through August).
Characteristics
White-Eared hummingbirds are relatively docile compared to other hummingbirds and don’t mind having people around as they go about their business gathering nectar from flowers. They have excellent vision and can spot predators from great distances. These birds also have an incredible memory and will remember their favorite flowers and nectar sources. They love to hover near humans and are easily enticed by a sweet treat.
8. Violet-Crowned Hummingbird
The Violet-crowned Hummingbird is a medium-sized hummingbird with an iridescent green back and white breasts. It has a distinctive violet crown that can be seen from far away. This species can be found in Idaho during the migration season (May through August).
Characteristics
Violet-Crowned hummingbirds are very curious and will often investigate whatever is happening in their environment, including humans. They have excellent vision and can spot predators from great distances. These birds also have an incredible memory and will remember their favorite flowers and nectar sources. Additionally, they are relatively fearless compared to other species of hummingbirds.
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Wrap Up
Idaho is home to a wide variety of hummingbirds, including the Black-chinned Hummingbird, Anna’s Hummingbird, White-eared Hummingbird, and Violet-crowned Hummingbird. Each species has its own unique characteristics that make it special. Whether you are just starting out in birding or an experienced birder, there are plenty of opportunities to observe these amazing birds in Idaho. So take a chance and see what feathery friends you can find!
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