Anna's hummingbird

Anna's hummingbird is a medium-sized bird celebrated for its vibrant colors and captivating behaviors. Named after Anna Masséna, Duchess of Rivoli, this bird belongs to the Trochilidae family and is native to the western coastal regions of North America. Initially, their breeding grounds were confined to northern Baja California and southern California. However, the introduction of ornamental plants has broadened their habitat, providing ample nectar and nesting sites.

These birds measure approximately 3.9 to 4.3 inches in length, featuring iridescent bronze-green backs, pale grey chests and bellies, and green flanks. Adult males are particularly striking with their iridescent crimson-red crowns and gorgets, while females exhibit smaller, less vivid red patches on their throats. Anna's hummingbirds thrive on nectar, insects, and arthropods, making them vital pollinators. They are often observed rapidly shaking their bodies to rid themselves of rain or dirt—a behavior commonly seen in gardens, parks, and near bird feeders.

In terms of reproduction, these hummingbirds construct nests using plant fibers, feathers, and spider silk, camouflaging them with lichen and other materials. Males are renowned for their elaborate courtship displays, which involve singing and dramatic aerial maneuvers. Fascinatingly, they can hybridize with other hummingbird species, occasionally leading to confusion regarding new species identification.

Anna's hummingbirds are widely distributed along the western coast of North America, boasting an estimated population of 1.5 million birds, and are not currently endangered. Their range extends from southern Canada to Baja California and reaches inland to parts of Arizona, Nevada, Utah, and Texas. Occasionally, they are spotted far beyond their typical range, showcasing their adaptability. Factors such as the planting of non-native species and the provision of bird feeders have contributed to their territorial expansion. Notably, Anna's hummingbirds possess the northernmost year-round range of any hummingbird species and can endure cold temperatures by converting sugar to fat and entering a state of torpor.