Are you ready to explore the world of hummingbirds in Illinois? With over 8 unique and beautiful species, there’s something for everyone! You’ll discover everything from vibrant Anna’s Hummingbird to the Rufous Hummingbird.
Get ready to learn what makes each type of hummer so special as well as how to attract them into your garden. Along the way, you may even make a few friends by providing them with food and shelter! Let’s take an up-close look at these magical creatures that are sure to bring joy and wonderment into your life.
8 Types Of Hummingbirds In Illinois
- Anna’s Hummingbird (Calypte Anna)
- Allen’s Hummingbird (Selasphorus Sasin)
- Black-Chinned Hummingbird (Archilochus Alexandri)
- Broad-Billed Hummingbird (Cynanthus Latirostris)
- Broad-Tailed Hummingbird (Selasphorus Platycercus)
- Mexican Violetear (Colibri Thalassinus)
- Ruby-Throated Hummingbird (Archilochus Colubris)
- Rufous Hummingbird (Selasphorus Rufus)
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1. Anna’s Hummingbird (Calypte Anna)
Anna’s Hummingbird is one of the species of hummingbird that have been spotted in Illinois and can be identified by its medium-sized body and bright green feathers.
These birds usually have a white throat with red or pink patches, as well as a long tail that has two pairs of outer feathers. Anna’s Hummingbirds are attracted to nectar feeders like hummingbird feeders, but they also eat insects for protein. They often make nests out of spider webs in shrubs and bushes near sources of food.
2. Allen’s Hummingbird (Selasphorus Sasin)
The Allen’s Hummingbird is an accidental species found in Illinois, which means it rarely visits the state but may do so on rare occasions. The male Allen’s Hummingbird has a brilliant green back and crown with a pinkish-red throat that may appear more purple in some lighting. The female is less vibrant, with a grey-green back and white throat. Both genders feed on nectar from flowers like sagebrush and columbine, as well as insects for protein.
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3. Black-Chinned Hummingbird (Archilochus Alexandri)
The Black-Chinned Hummingbird is often found in Illinois during the summer months when they migrate north to breed. This species of hummingbird can be identified by its small size, black chin, orange-brown chest, and green upper parts with hints of blue or violet.
Black-Chinned Hummingbirds feed on nectar from flowers and love to visit hummingbird feeders, as well as eat insects for protein. They build nests out of plant down and spider silk near sources of food, usually in low shrubs.
4. Broad-Billed Hummingbird (Cynanthus Latirostris)
The Broad-Billed Hummingbird is a seasonal species found in Illinois that can be identified by its medium size, brilliant green feathers, and broad black bill.
This species has a white throat with no markings, unlike other hummers. The female has a dull olive back instead of the male’s vibrant green coloration. Broad-Billed Hummingbirds feed primarily on nectar from flowers and hummingbird feeders, as well as insect protein. Like other hummingbirds, they also make nests out of plants down in shrubs near sources of food.
5. Broad-Tailed Hummingbird (Selasphorus Platycercus)
The Broad-Tailed Hummingbird is an uncommon species found in Illinois that can be identified by its medium size, brilliant green feathers, and broad black bill. This species has a white throat with no markings, unlike other hummers.
The female has a dull olive back instead of the male’s vibrant green coloration. Broad-Tailed Hummingbirds feed primarily on nectar from flowers and hummingbird feeders, as well as insect protein. They make nests out of plants down in shrubs near sources of food.
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6. Mexican Violetear (Colibri Thalassinus)
The Mexican Violetear is an uncommon hummingbird found in Illinois that can be identified by its medium size and brilliant green feathers, as well as its violet throat patch and black or purple bill. The male has a turquoise back, while the female is duller with a grey-green back.
Mexican Violetears eat nectar from flowers and visit hummingbird feeders, as well as eat insects for protein. They make nests out of plant fibers and spider webs near sources of food, usually in low shrubs and bushes.
7. Ruby-Throated Hummingbird (Archilochus Colubris)
The Ruby-Throated Hummingbird is a species of hummingbird in Illinois and can easily be identified by its medium size, brilliant green feathers, and ruby throat patch.
Males have a white throat with a red or pink patch, while females are usually greyish-green. Ruby-Throated Hummingbirds feed on nectar from flowers and visit hummingbird feeders for an easy meal. They also eat small insects for protein. They build nests out of plants near sources of food, often in shrubs or bushes.
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8. Rufous Hummingbird (Selasphorus Rufus)
The Rufous Hummingbird is an uncommon species of hummingbird found in Illinois that can be identified by its small size and brilliant green feathers, as well as its distinctive orange-rufous throat patch. The male has a bronze-green back, while the female is duller with a grey-green back.
Rufous Hummingbirds eat nectar from flowers and love to visit hummingbird feeders for an easy meal. They also eat small insects for protein. They build nests out of plants near sources of food, often in shrubs or bushes.
Some Handy Tips For Bird Watching
1. Invest In The Right Equipment:
Binoculars, field guides, and other bird-watching accessories can help you spot birds quickly and accurately.
2. Know Where To Go:
Different species can be found in different habitats, so it is important to know where to go to find them.
3. Listen Carefully:
Paying attention to the sounds of birds can help you identify them more easily.
4. Dress Appropriately:
Wearing camouflage or muted colors will make it easier for you to blend into your surroundings while observing birds.
5. Be Patient:
Bird watching requires patience and a keen eye, as some species may take some time before appearing.
6. Respect Wildlife:
Remember that birds are wild creatures and should be treated with respect. Stay quiet and still, and maintain a safe distance from the birds to avoid stressing them out.
Have fun! Bird watching can be an enjoyable way to spend your time in nature. Enjoy the sights and sounds of these beautiful creatures!
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Conclusion
Hummingbirds are a captivating species of birds found throughout Illinois. With so many different types, each with its unique colors and patterns, there is sure to be one that will pique your interest.
From the Black-Chinned Hummingbird to the Rufous Hummingbird, they all have distinct characteristics and behaviors which make them an enjoyable addition to any backyard or nature preserve. Each species plays a vital role in our ecosystem, from pollinating flowers to controlling insect populations, so we should appreciate and protect these precious creatures for generations to come.
