We will present an array of the most widely-observed hummingbirds in Texas, highlighting them with pictures and pertinent information. The data was only sourced through reputable resources and double checked by a certified Ornithologist for accuracy.
Ruby throated Hummingbirds
The Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Archilochus colubris) is a stunning species of hummingbird that thrives across Texas, boasting iridescent red throat feathers and a unique curved bill – black on the upper mandible and orange-yellow underneath. With an average length measuring 3 to 4 inches, this formidable flyer can be found in open woods, backyards, parks and gardens alike – constantly flitting to capture small insects like flies, mosquitoes or moths using their long slender beaks; while primarily nourishing themselves with sweet nectar from flowers.
During mating season, the Ruby-throated Hummingbird’s behavior is quite remarkable. Male hummingbirds will fiercely protect their feeding areas from other birds or insects and even perform a courtship display that involves hovering in front of their female counterparts with fluttering wings and loud chirping! These spectacular creatures are always active and on the go, so keep an eye out for them as you explore nature this spring.
Every year, the stunning Ruby-throated Hummingbird prepares for its seasonal migration south to Central America. As early as April or May, these delicate birds return back to Texas and begin constructing their unique nests made of plant down, lichen pieces and spider webs along with other materials found in nearby trees or shrubs. Females lay 1-3 eggs per clutch which then hatch after around three weeks before fledging into adulthood.
Buff-bellied Hummingbird
The Buff-bellied Hummingbird (Amazilia yucatanensis) is a small species of hummingbird located in Texas. Its figure shows off a bronze green body, white tail feathers, and buff belly while its slender bill measures at 0.3 inches (8 mm). It feeds on nectar and insects which can be seen hovering near flowers or chasing after bugs for sustenance. This little creature grows up to 4 inches (10 cm)!
The Buff-bellied Hummingbird relishes in dry grassland, open woodlands and desert scrub habitats filled with plenty of flowers. In the summertime, it can be observed down south in Texas as well as neighboring states. When winter arrives, they fly off to Mexico for some rest and relaxation.
During the mating season, the Buff-bellied Hummingbird is a separate being that only comes together with other birds when courting or chasing down sustenance. Moreover, it shows off its protective nature by fiercely driving away any other hummingbirds from its own territory once they draw near. As part of courtship, males will perform daring aerial maneuvers to vie for mates as well as keep their nesting site inviolable against rival hummingbirds.
For the construction of its nest, the bird utilizes moss, spider webs and lichens. It’s preferred nesting sites are found near water sources in trees or bushes. The female lays 1-3 eggs before beginning her 12-17 day incubation period; once hatched, it takes another 20 to 30 days for fledglings to become independent from their parents.
Black-chinned Hummingbird
The Black-chinned Hummingbird (Archilochus alexandri) is an avian native to North America, easily distinguishable by its distinctive features. Its head is a vibrant green hue while its chest and belly are pristine white in color. The back of this lovely creature is bluish green with a red or orange throat patch and gray legs complementing the look perfectly. Males have longer wings than their female counterparts, as well as slightly extended bills and forked tails that spike out more drastically.
If you’re in Texas, then be sure to look out for Black-chinned Hummingbirds! These petite creatures—ranging from 3 to 4 inches (7.5 to 10 cm) and weighing less than 0.1 ounces (3 grams)—are predominantly sustained by nectar from flowers, tree sap, as well as tiny insects. Feeders with sweet liquid treats or hummingbird mixtures of sugar water are very alluring for them too!
The black-chinned hummingbird is most likely to be spotted in open habitats such as deserts, grasslands, near the edges of wooded areas, and parks with flowering trees or shrubs for nectar sources. These birds are quite common throughout Texas from its southeastern corner all the way up to parts of West Texas.
Boasting speed and agility, the Black-chinned Hummingbird is known for its rapid wing movement as it hovers near nectar sites. Its melodious trill featuring chirping notes is used to communicate during courtship displays or territorial fights. Come winter, these birds migrate southward in search of warmer climates with more food sources.
Allen’s Hummingbird
(Selasphorus sasin) is a species of hummingbird found throughout the western United States and into parts of Mexico. It can be identified by its blue-green head, orangey-red throat and grayish flanks.
In terms of diet, Allen’s Hummingbird feeds mainly on nectar from flowers and small insects. They are especially attracted to brightly coloured flowers and can often be seen hovering near them.
Allen’s Hummingbird is fairly small, measuring only around 3-4 inches in length. They have a wingspan of just 4-5 inches across.
Typically Allen’s Hummingbirds will inhabit open woodlands, chaparral, and gardens. They will often build their nests in trees, shrubs and palms near where they feed.
Behaviorally, Allen’s Hummingbirds are relatively active birds. They can often be seen chasing each other during the breeding season, displaying to potential mates or defending their territory. They also migrate south for the winter months and return to their breeding sites in the spring.
In Texas, Allen’s Hummingbirds can be found mainly in the western and southern portions of the state. They are most active during the months of March to October. Outside of this time they may migrate or hibernate depending on weather conditions.
Calliope Hummingbird
The tiny Calliope Hummingbird (Stellula calliope), a member of the Trochilidae family, is unmistakable with its iridescent green back and white front and throat. Characterised by black tail feathers and a striking red streak on its forehead, this hummingbird usually weighs in at an astonishingly light 2.5 to 3 grams (0.09 to 0.11 oz).
Not only does it take nourishment from nectar but also supplements its diet with small insects or spiders; making Texas’ wildflower blooms during summertime the perfect place for these delicate birds to thrive!
The beautiful Calliope Hummingbird is a species that can be found in habitats ranging from meadows and woodlands to mountainous regions. During the breeding season, males are known to guard their prized food sources with vigor as they establish territories of their own. This tiny bird has an impressive migratory journey ahead: up to 3,000 miles over its lifetime! In Texas specifically, it’s considered a migratory species which winters in the south United States or Mexico.
Broad-tailed Hummingbird
The Broad tailed Hummingbird (Selasphorus platycercus), a species distinctive for its wide triangular tail, is native to the United States and commonly found in open woodlands or shrubby regions of the West and Southwest. This tiny bird measures merely 3.5 – 4 inches in length with an average weight of 2.6 -3.6 grams! It’s mostly green with male specimens sporting an iridescent forget (throat patch) that glistens red or purple when struck by sunlight!
During the summer months, Broad-tailed Hummingbirds flutter around in search of insects and flower nectar. It’s fascinating to observe them hovering over flowers with their long beaks as they draw out a sugary liquid from within.
This species of hummingbird is largely independent; however, during breeding season, males will congregate into colonies for greater mating opportunities and territory protection. At the onset of winter chillier temperatures arrive thus driving these birds southward to more temperate climates until springtime.
Violet-crowned Hummingbird
The vibrant and unique Violet-crowned Hummingbird (Amazilia violiceps) is an enchanting species of hummingbird native to Texas. It boasts a white throat, violet crown, green back and bill that’s slightly curved at the tip. On average these birds are about 3.1 inches in length with a wingspan of 4.3 inches – making them small yet powerful!
The Violet-crowned Hummingbirds inhabit semi-arid woodlands as well as gardens and grassy areas throughout the state of Texas; they primarily feed on insects, flower nectar, tree sap, fruits & honeydew from aphids – but sometimes take advantage of bird feeders too!
During the breeding season, spirited Violet-crowned Hummingbirds fiercely protect their territories with aerial displays, often gathering in small groups for sustenance or to migrate. Female hummingbirds construct cup nests from plant down and spider webs usually placed in shrubs or trees. Then both sexes join forces to incubate two eggs per clutch and nurture their young birds until they are ready to fly away on their own.
Green-breasted Mango
The Green-breasted Mango (Anthracothorax prevostii), an exquisite species of hummingbird, can be found in various locations throughout Central and South America and parts of the southern United States including Texas. Sporting an overall dark green body with a bright yellowish-green throat coupled with white tips to its tail feathers, this tiny bird is approximately 8 to 9 cm long yet weighs only 3 to 5 grams. Additionally, males possess a stunning purple-pink gorget that enlivens their already glossy appearance.
If you’re in Texas, the Green-breasted Mango is an active bird that can frequently be spotted hovering over plants and chasing after insects. They inhabit open woodlands and thickets close to rivers or streams, primarily feeding on nectar from flowers or small bugs such as spiders, lizards, and other invertebrates. Additionally, they are fiercely territorial creatures who will chase away any hummingbird entering their space!
Throughout the warm summer months of April to August, Green-breasted Mangoes nest in evergreen shrubs or trees. The nests are built with a combination of plant material and soft down covered by spiders’ webs, housing two white eggs that take roughly two weeks to incubate. In three short weeks, these chicks will mature into independent birds ready to explore the world beyond their nest!
White-eared Hummingbird
The White-eared Hummingbird (Basilinna leucotis) is a dazzling bird found in the US states of Texas, New Mexico and Arizona as well as Northern Mexico. Its glossy green back with white throat stands out vibrantly against its rusty-brown belly, making it an easily distinguishable species among hummingbirds. Besides nectar from flowers, this medium sized member of the hummingbird family also feeds on small insects for sustenance.
The active White-eared Hummingbird can reach heights of up to four inches and is often seen bobbing its head in the air. This species prefers lush environments like pine-oak forests, riparian habitats near streams or rivers, as well as gardens found close by wooded areas.
The White-eared Hummingbird is a solitary being, preferring to keep its own company during the breeding season. However, they do join together in groups when searching for nectar or insects. Fiercely territorial, these hummingbirds will fiercely defend their food sources from any neighboring birds that may try to compete with them. During winter months they migrate southward utilizing thermals and updrafts to remain airborne along the way. Fortunately for Texas residents, you can be graced with the presence of this enchanting creature between springtime and autumn!
Rufous Hummingbird
The Rufous Hummingbird (Selasphorus rufus), a native species of Texas, stands out for its striking features: copper-colored feathers adorning its back and flanks; white throats and bellies; green crowns; black faces; orange tipped wings and even fork tails. In addition to being the smallest migrating bird in North America at 3.5 inches (9 centimeters) long with a wingspan of 4-4.75 inches (10-12 cm.), this hummingbird is also omnivorous, dining on both insects as well as nectar!
During their annual migratory season, stretching from April to September, Rufous Hummingbirds can be seen across western and eastern regions of Texas. Their natural habitat lies mainly in the far north – including Alaska and Canada – as well as Central America.
Male Rufous Hummingbirds are highly territorial and will fiercely protect the nectar sources they deem their own. To find food, these tiny birds possess an impressive ability to fly in a zigzag pattern for maximum efficiency. Moreover, hummingbirds can hover mid-air, move backward through the sky and even soar upside down!
Berylline Hummingbird
Amazilia beryllina is an extraordinary hummingbird species, its vibrant green upperparts and chestnut-coloured underparts are marked with two dark stripes on either side of its throat. It has a wingspan that ranges between 4 to 5 inches, making it one of the smallest types in North America! Its diet consists mainly of nectar from flowers as well as small bugs and spiders. This exquisite creature is natively found flying around Texas and other parts of the United States.
The Berylline Hummingbird frequents open woodlands, meadows, shrublands and even suburban yards that offer flowering plants for sustenance and nesting resources. During the breeding season it is apt to be found in greater elevations but when winter arrives these birds will migrate to lower laid areas.
The Berylline Hummingbird demonstrates the typical behavior of hummingbirds, hovering around flowers and hastily maneuvering in search of food. This species has evolved to use their slender beak and tongue to extract nectar from blossoms, as well as nabbing small bugs on occasion. Moreover, this type is especially territorial; it will frequently shoo away other birds who try to infringe upon its territory or sources of nourishment. When not foraging, one may find these creatures sunbathing or tidying up their feathers with preening motions!
Anna’s Hummingbird
The Calypte anna hummingbird, named after Anna Masséna, Duchess of Rivoli, is a vibrant beauty that can be found along the western coast of North America. This small species measures between 3.2-3.7 inches in length and has an impressive wingspan ranging from 4 to 4.4 inches wide. Male hummingbirds boast a brilliant green crown and throat while female counterparts are slightly subtler in tone – though no less stunning!
Hummingbirds feast on a variety of nectar and small bugs, particularly favoring sugar-laden blooms such as columbines and trumpet vines. Embarking in the Lone Star State? Look around open woodlands, deserts, oak savannas – or even coastal areas and rivers during the colder months – to spot Anna’s Hummingbird!
The Anna’s Hummingbird is renowned for its protective nature that can be seen in its territorial behavior. Not only will they fearlessly protect their space from other hummingbirds, but also from larger animals such as small mammals and insects. When an intruder dares to encroach on the bird’s area, it responds with a flurry of shrill chirps and dive-bombing maneuvers!
These hummingbirds are not only one of the most common species in Texas, but also incredibly curious. They will swoop into your garden when they spot vibrant colors and sweet aromas! If you create a safe habitat with plenty of food sources available, then these birds can be an exquisite addition to any backyard that’ll leave you enthralled by their majestic beauty.
Lucifer Hummingbird
(Calothorax lucifer) is a species of hummingbird found in Texas. It has a length of 9 cm and a wingspan of 14 cm, making it one of the smallest existing birds in North America. The Lucifer Hummingbird is easily identifiable with its metallic green back, white breast and grayish-black throat patch. Its diet typically consists of insects and small fruits.
The Lucifer Hummingbird is found in open habitats such as woodlands, shrublands, parks, gardens and other urban settings. It prefers areas with plenty of nectar-producing plants. The Lucifer Hummingbird is usually quite active during the day, making short flights between flowers to feed on nectar. It also regularly hovers while feeding, hovering around flowers to collect pollen and sip nectar with its long bill. Hummingbirds are known to be territorial, defending their territories against other hummingbirds of the same species or other species. The Lucifer Hummingbird is no exception – males will fiercely defend their territories from intruders.
In addition to its territorial behavior, the Lucifer Hummingbird also performs spectacular courtship displays including a fast, high-pitched chirping noise. During breeding season, male hummingbirds establish and defend territories around nectar-producing flowers in order to attract potential mates. Once they have attracted a female, they will perform aerial displays and fly in circles around each other.
Blue-Throated Hummingbird
The Blue-Throated Hummingbird (Lampornis clemenciae), native to the arid regions of Texas and Mexico, is recognized for its blue throat patch – hence its name. Males stand out with their long tail feathers which have a fork shaped tip. This beautiful hummingbird feeds on nectar from flowers during dawn and dusk while hovering in midair, as well as small insects, spiders, and sap.
The Blue-Throated Hummingbird, with a wingspan of 3 to 3.5 inches wide and measuring around 4 inches in length, can be discovered living among the dense patches of vegetation found in open woodlands, mountain slopes, and deserts.
The independent Blue-Throated Hummingbird is famous for its speed and impressive aerial maneuvers. During nesting season, the bird will fiercely guard its territory from other hummingbirds by chasing them off with vigor. Moreover, during courtship males perform display flights as a way to entice potential partners – they are incredibly vocal creatures too; their songs can be heard when breeding. Truly an incredible species!
The Blue-Throated Hummingbird, an endangered species in Texas, is facing a very real threat due to the destruction of its habitat. Fortunately, conservationists are working hard to protect this remarkable creature and its environment along with other hummingbirds living within the state borders. Together we can ensure that these beautiful birds remain safe for generations to come!
Rivoli’s Hummingbird
The (Eugenes fulgens) hummingbird is a striking species of average size, commonly located in Texas. Its head and upper body are colored an eye-catching coppery green while its underside shades between white and gray. The males have longer beaks that curve outward, while the females possess slender bills with red-orange iridescent throats to make them stand out from other types of hummingbirds.
The Rivoli’s Hummingbird is a remarkable species that feasts on miniscule creatures such as aphids and spiders, as well as the nectar from some of nature’s most beautiful flowers like lilies, primroses, and honeysuckles. These tiny birds measure between 3-4 inches in length with an impressive wingspan reaching 5 inches!
Rivoli’s Hummingbird typically inhabits woodlands, forests, gardens, and parks with plenty of trees and shrubs for protection. Energetic throughout the day, these stunning birds are often spotted hovering in front of flowers to collect nectar or chasing after insects. Besides their peaceful nature around other hummingbirds from their own species; they aggressively defend their feeding territories by diving at possible intruders.
Come sundown, Rivoli’s Hummingbird will often perch in a nearby tree or bush for the evening to rest and preserve energy. They stay there until dawn when they’re ready to hunt for food again.
Broad-Billed Hummingbird
Standing at an impressive 4-5 inches in length, the (Cynanthus latirostris) hummingbirds of Texas are known for their stunningly brilliant and colorful feathers, flaunting shades of metallic green and blue alongside a vibrant red throat patch. Not only do they make quite the sight to behold while hovering in mid-air as they feed on nectar from flowers; but these feathery wonders also scour for small insects and spiders to fulfill their dietary needs!
Hummingbirds flutter across a diverse selection of environments, from desert scrublands to deep forests. In Texas they thrive in the arid desert regions and near the lush Rio Grande river valley.
These birds are widely known for their zippy yet erratic flight paths; hummingbirds can rapidly fly backwards, up, down and sideways as well as remain floating in midair while feasting on deliciously sweet nectar within flowers.
During the breeding season, Broad-Billed Hummingbirds can be found across western Texas. As a migratory species in this state, these beautiful birds make their way southwest to Mexico and beyond during winter months. Central and South America also provide suitable grounds for them to pass colder temperatures until they return northward; an elegant feat of resilience that nature has mastered over centuries!
Mexican Violetear Hummingbird
The Colibri thalassinus, otherwise known as the Mexican Violetear Hummingbird, is a species of hummingbird which can be spotted in Texas. This captivating bird displays an iridescent violet-blue crown with green wings and back plus a white collar on its throat – boasting a slender yet slightly upturned bill and measuring approximately 8 to 9 centimeters (3.1 to 3.5 inches) in length!
The Mexican Violetear’s diet consists primarily of flower nectar; however they may occasionally consume small insects or spiders for supplemental protein intake. Boasting strong wings that grant it quick flight speeds along with graceful hovering prowess while reaching out for its food source make this species truly remarkable!
These exquisite creatures make their homes in various habitats, including woodlands, forest fringes, deciduous and semi-arid shrubland. Come breeding season males showcase their stunning plumage to entice a potential mate. Furthermore they are renowned for asserting territorial rights by attempting to shoo away other hummingbirds from the area surrounding their nest site.
In Texas these birds can typically be spotted during spring and summertime months before embarking on an autumnal exodus back to warmer climes – usually arriving home around March or April each year!
Birdwatchers in Texas are blessed to enjoy the vibrant and animated Mexican Violetear Hummingbird. Their striking plumage, coupled with their amusing antics make these birds a joy to behold!
Blue throated mountain gem
The stunning Lampornis clemenciae, a species of hummingbird native to parts of the US and Mexico, is filled with vibrant colors. It measures 3.1-3.5 inches in length (with males being slightly larger than their female counterparts), while its upperparts are greenish grey and its underparts – including the throat from which it gets its name – possess an eye-catching blue hue! The bill appears slender and black with a slight curve downwards that further accentuates this gorgeous creature’s beauty.
The diet of blue throated mountain gems mainly consists of insects, like ants and beetles. When nectar is present to supplement their food intake during the winter months, they are quick to take advantage! These beautiful hummingbirds inhabit woodlands at elevations between 1,000-2,400 meters (3,280-7,874 feet)! They tend to frequent deciduous or coniferous forests near clearings – a perfect place for these unique birds to thrive.
Blue throated mountain gems are independent and highly territorial, fiercely protecting their space from other hummingbird species during mating season. Males will dart back and forth in an impressive display of flight prowess while uttering shrill cries to keep unwanted visitors away. Though they can be assertive when breeding, the birds typically remain peaceful with one another outside of these periods.
Best Nectar Feeders to Attract Hummingbirds in Texas
Discover the captivating beauty of hummingbirds in Texas by investing in a top-rated nectar feeder – it’s the perfect way to bring them into your backyard or garden! Humming birds are dainty and vibrant, but they’re also remarkably drawn to these types of feeders. Make sure you choose one that is rated highly so that you can ensure maximum attraction for these lovely creatures.
For a more polished look, glass nectar feeders are the best option. Hang them or place them on stands, they come in all shapes and sizes to fit into your garden design! However, with Texas’ sunny climate it’s important to keep these clean as sugar water spoils easily under the suns rays. Cleaning out regularly ensures that you get the most use of your hummingbird feeder and attracts beautiful birds for years to come!
Utilizing plastic nectar feeders is an excellent choice if you’re on a budget. They are simple to clean, cost-effective, and come in vivid colors that will attract hummingbirds! To guarantee the longevity of your plastic feeder, check its seals regularly; they tend to leak with time.
For added protection against pesky ants locating your precious nectar supply, opt for hummingbird feeders equipped with integrated ant traps. It’s easy and efficient – simply utilize the trapping system without hindering Hummingbirds from accessing their food source!
What months are hummingbirds in Texas?
For Texans, spring and summer are the best times to witness a hummingbird fluttering by. Their migration usually peaks between late February and early June, but depending on where you live in Texas they may arrive as early as March or stay until September/October! So if you’re looking for when’s the perfect opportunity to spot one of these flying masterpieces – keep an eye out during those warmer months because Spring and Summer is when Hummingbirds take over The Lone Star State!
Hummingbirds are temporary guests and if you want to keep them around, providing food and water sources is essential. Furthermore, planting native wildflowers and shrubs can give these birds a good source of nectar for their energy needs. By being mindful of the seasonal patterns that affect hummingbird migration as well as understanding how to draw them in with resources, you’ll be able to witness these stunning birds throughout Texas year-round!
When should you take down hummingbird feeders in Texas?
Beat the chilly weather and help keep your feathered friends safe by taking down hummingbird feeders in Texas when summertime begins to wane. Typically, migrating hummingbirds leave between August and October, so make sure to properly clean out your feeders before storing them away for winter until they return again in spring! Your efforts will go a long way towards maintaining healthy and nourishing feeding stations for these tiny treasured creatures.
As hummingbirds make their way south, you can offer them a more natural food source by planting flowers and shrubs that are rich in nectar. This will give them the necessary fuel they need as they travel on their journey. If you want to attract these beautiful birds to your yard when springtime arrives, set up your feeders near mid-February or early March so it’s ready for them! Get those binoculars out and enjoy bird watching!
Which hummingbirds are native to Texas?
Texas is the perfect destination for birdwatchers, hosting sixteen unique hummingbird species. The most popular are Black-chinned Hummingbirds, Rufous Hummingbirds, Costa’s Hummingbirds, Broad-tailed Hummingbirds, Calliope Hummingbirds, Allen’s Hummingbirsd and White-eared as well as Violet-crowned varieties.
The diverse and vibrant range of birdlife in Texas includes the Buff-bellied Hummingbird, Broad-billed Hummingbird, Lucifer Hummingbird, Blue-throated Hummingbird, Magnificent Hummingbird and Plain-capped Starthroat. To add even more charm to this feathered population of beauty are two kinds of Anna’s hummingbirds – the Mexican species that can usually be spotted in southern parts of Texas while its Ruby-throated sibling is particularly numerous in East Texas!
Texas is not just home to a variety of migratory hummingbirds such as Rufous, Calliope, Broad-tailed and Black-chinned hummingbirds; it also boasts the elusive broad-billed Hummingbird. It’s an uncommon visitor that brings joy to avid birders in the spring season!
How do I attract hummingbirds to my feeder in Texas?
Attracting hummingbirds to your feeder in Texas is simple! All you need to do is mix one part sugar with four parts water and boil it until the sugar has dissolved. Then, let it cool before pouring the solution into your feeder and placing it outdoors away from trees or other objects that could obstruct their view. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can make sure those sweet birds get a delicious snack every time they fly by!
Make your feeder the go-to spot for hummingbirds by adding bright flowers and red or yellow feeders to your garden. You can also hang wind chimes or other shiny objects, as these birds love sparkles! Don’t forget to keep up with maintenance on the birdfeeder: clean it regularly with hot water and fill it up fresh every few days. Follow this advice, and you’ll be enjoying visits from plenty of tiny feathered friends in no time!