Anna's Hummingbird

Anna's Hummingbird males are easily identified by their shimmering rose-pink crown and throat, known as a gorget, which catches the light brilliantly. The rest of the male's plumage is a blend of green and gray, creating a sleek appearance. Females and juveniles lack the full gorget, instead displaying a more subdued greenish-gray plumage with a hint of red spotting on the throat. The overall size of Anna's Hummingbird remains consistent, with both sexes measuring about 10 cm in length and weighing around 4-5 grams. In flight, Anna's Hummingbird displays a rapid, darting motion, often accompanied by a distinctive whirring sound produced by the wingbeats. When perched, it often holds a slightly hunched posture, with the tail feathers slightly fanned. Differentiating Anna's Hummingbird from similar species such as the Costa's Hummingbird can be achieved by noting the broader, more rounded tail and the coloration pattern. Costa's exhibit a more violet-toned gorget and a slimmer silhouette. These field marks assist in distinguishing Anna's from other hummingbirds, especially in areas where their ranges overlap.

Anna's Hummingbird primarily feeds on nectar from a variety of flowering plants, favoring those with tubular red or orange flowers. Common nectar sources include honeysuckle, eucalyptus, and manzanita. In addition to nectar, it consumes small insects and spiders, providing essential proteins, especially during the breeding season. Its diet shifts slightly with the seasons, relying more on insects when flowers are sparse, particularly in colder months. Foraging involves agile hovering and swift movements between blooms, often concentrating its activity during dawn and dusk when nectar production peaks. This hummingbird exhibits a high metabolic rate, necessitating frequent feeding throughout the day to maintain energy levels.

Anna's Hummingbird exhibits territorial behavior, with males defending feeding areas and potential nesting sites with vigor. They perform aerial displays and emit sharp vocalizations to deter intruders. Socially, these hummingbirds are generally solitary except during courtship and breeding. Courtship displays involve males executing steep, U-shaped dives accompanied by a loud, metallic sound produced by tail feathers. This behavior not only attracts females but also establishes dominance over territory. In response to predators like hawks and domestic cats, Anna's Hummingbird relies on rapid flight and evasive maneuvers. Daily activity peaks during the cooler parts of the day, especially early morning and late afternoon, aligning with optimal foraging conditions.

Anna's Hummingbird constructs small, cup-shaped nests using plant fibers, moss, and spider silk, often situated 1-6 meters above ground in shrubs or trees. Females select concealed locations, providing shelter and protection from predators. The clutch typically consists of two eggs, with an incubation period of about 14-19 days. Fledging occurs approximately 18-23 days after hatching, during which the female alone feeds and cares for the young. Anna's Hummingbird may produce two to three broods per year, particularly in regions with extended flowering seasons. Parental investment is significant, ensuring high survival rates for the fledglings.

The primary song of Anna's Hummingbird consists of a series of scratchy, high-pitched notes delivered rapidly, resembling a squeaky door or a raspy chirp. Males use this song to establish territory and attract mates. In addition to the song, they produce sharp, metallic call notes and alarm calls when threatened. During courtship dives, the sound created by the tail feathers adds an auditory component to the display. The dawn chorus features an increase in vocal activity, with males prominently advertising their presence and readiness to breed.

• 1Anna's Hummingbird can hover in mid-air by beating its wings up to 50 times per second, allowing it to access nectar efficiently.
• 2This species has a heart rate that can reach up to 1,260 beats per minute, essential for sustaining its rapid flight and high metabolism.
• 3Anna's Hummingbird can consume up to half its body weight in nectar daily, supplemented with small insects for protein.
• 4Their courtship dive can reach speeds of nearly 90 kilometers per hour, with a distinctive sound produced by the tail feathers.
• 5Anna's Hummingbird has been observed in altitudes up to 2,300 meters, showcasing its adaptability to different environments.
• 6This hummingbird species has been a year-round resident in parts of North America for over a century, expanding its range thanks to urban gardens.
• 7Anna's Hummingbird is named after Anna Massena, Duchess of Rivoli, reflecting historical ties between ornithology and European nobility.

Anna's Hummingbird currently holds a stable population status according to the IUCN, categorized as Least Concern. The population trend shows an increase, credited to the species' adaptability to urban and suburban environments. Primary threats include habitat loss due to urbanization and climate change, which can alter flowering patterns and availability. Conservation efforts focus on preserving natural habitats and promoting the planting of native, nectar-rich flora in urban landscapes. Historically, the species' range has expanded, largely due to human influence, illustrating its resilience and adaptability.