9 Unique Species Of Hummingbirds In North Carolina – Fascinating Facts
Hummingbirds are one of the most fascinating and enchanting bird species found in North Carolina. These tiny birds are renowned for their unique ability to hover in mid-air, move quickly in any direction, and fly backward, making them a wonder to behold.
North Carolina is home to several species of hummingbirds, including the Ruby-throated, Rufous, and Anna’s hummingbirds. These birds are known to migrate long distances during the year, making North Carolina a popular destination for birdwatchers.
I’ll look closer at the world of hummingbirds in North Carolina and explore their habitat, feeding habits, nesting behavior, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or simply curious about these fascinating creatures, there’s something here for everyone.
North Carolina Is Home To Nine Unique Hummingbird Species
This state is well-known for its spectacular wildlife and diverse habitats. Among the many creatures that call this area home, nine unique hummingbird species can be found throughout the state.
Ruby-throated Hummingbird
One of the most notable hummingbird species in North Carolina is the Ruby-throated Hummingbird. Its green back, white underparts, and ruby-red throat patch quickly identify it. The male Ruby-throated Hummingbird is slightly larger than its female counterpart, and its throat patch is brighter in color.
Length: 7 to 9 cm
Wingspan: 8 to 11 cm
Weight: 3-4 gm
Diet: Nectar and insects
Allen’s Hummingbird
This small, energetic bird is a common sight throughout the state, particularly in the coastal and western regions. Allen’s Hummingbird is a delight to observe with its bright green head, wings and back, and reddish-orange underparts. It has a unique, high-pitched chirp that can be heard in gardens and wooded areas throughout the state.
Length: 7.5 to 9 cm
Wingspan: Up to 11 cm
Weight: 2-4 gm
Diet: Nectar and insects
Black-chinned Hummingbird
The tiny Black-chinned Hummingbird can be easily identified by its emerald green back, wings, white chest, and black chin. The male Black-chinned Hummingbird also has an iridescent purple throat.
This hummingbird species is most active during the warm months of spring and summer when they can be seen flying around gardens, woodlands, and other open habitats.
Length: Up to 9 cm
Wingspan: Up to 11 cm
Weight: 2.3-4.9 gm
Diet: Nectar and insects
Anna’s Hummingbird
It is one of the most commonly seen hummingbirds in the state. These small birds inhabit the state’s coastal regions, though they can be found throughout the state. Anna’s Hummingbird has a unique physical appearance, with green-tinted feathers and a rose-red crown and throat patch.
Length: 9.9 to 10.9 cm
Wingspan: Up to 12 cm
Weight: 2.8-5.7 gm
Diet: Nectar and insects
Calliope Hummingbird
North Carolina is home to many species of hummingbirds, and the Calliope Hummingbird is one of the most unique and spectacular species in the state. With its distinctive coloring and fascinating behavior, the Calliope Hummingbird has been a favorite of birders throughout the state.
The male Calliope Hummingbird is easily identifiable, with its striking green, black, and white feather pattern.
Length: 8 to 9 cm
Wingspan: 10.5 to 11 cm
Weight: 2.3-3.4 gm
Diet: Nectar and insects
Rufous Hummingbird
This small migratory species is common in North Carolina and can be spotted throughout the state during summer. The Rufous Hummingbird is easily identified by its bright orange-red throat, greenback, and small size.
This species is known for its remarkable endurance, often traveling up to 4,000 miles during its migration.
Length: 7 to 9 cm
Wingspan: Up to 11 cm
Weight: 2-5 gm
Diet: Nectar and insects
Broad-tailed Hummingbird
These birds are renowned for their brightly colored feathers, ranging from shades of green to bright pink to iridescent blue. They are also known for their distinctive chirps, which they use to attract mates and establish territories.
While they’re usually seen in open areas such as meadows and gardens, they can also be found near streams and rivers.
Length: Up to 10 cm
Wingspan: Up to 13 cm
Weight: around 3.6 gm
Diet: Nectar and insects
Broad-billed Hummingbird
The Broad-billed Hummingbird is typically found in the southern and western parts of North Carolina and along the coast during the spring and summer. They can be seen in various habitats, including woodlands, gardens, parks, and backyards. During the colder months, they migrate to Mexico and Central America.
Length: 8-10 cm
Wingspan: Up to 12.7 cm
Weight: 3-4 gm
Diet: Nectar and insects
Green-Breasted Mango
The beautiful Green-Breasted Mango is a medium-sized hummingbird with a slender body, iridescent green back, white chest and belly, and a long, thin bill. This species is well-known for its distinctive call, which is a loud, metallic trill.
Length: 11 to 12 cm
Wingspan: Up to 15.8 cm
Weight: 6.8-7.2 gm
Diet: Nectar and insects
In What Areas Of North Carolina Do Hummingbirds Nest?
Several species of hummingbirds can be found in North Carolina, and each one typically nests in different areas. The most common hummingbird in the state is the Ruby-throated Hummingbird, which nests in deciduous forests near the coast.
These birds usually build their nests on branches close to the trunk of a tree, often using spider webs to help bind the nest together. Other hummingbird species found in North Carolina include the Rufous Hummingbird, which nests in mountainous regions.
The Calliope Hummingbird nests in coniferous forests, and Anna’s Hummingbird, is mainly found along the state’s west coast. Each species builds its nest differently, but all generally prefer to nest close to food and water sources.
Optimal Season for Observing Hummingbirds in North Carolina
If you are looking for an ideal time to observe hummingbirds in North Carolina, it is essential to understand when the optimal season occurs. The best time to view hummingbirds in the Tar Heel State is in the late spring and early summer months, usually from April to June.
These colorful, tiny birds flock to North Carolina for their favorite nectar-filled flowers and feeders during this time. This is also a great time to take advantage of the mild weather, as many of the trails and gardens in the state are welcoming and perfect for bird-watching.
It is important to remember that hummingbirds may be seen year-round in North Carolina in addition to the spring and summer months.
What Are the Dietary Habits of Hummingbirds?
Hummingbirds are also unique in their dietary habits, which are quite different from other birds. They have a high metabolism and require a lot of energy to sustain their flight.
Nectar
The primary food source for hummingbirds is nectar. They feed on the nectar of flowers, which provides them with the high amounts of sugar they need to fuel their high metabolism. Hummingbirds have long, thin beaks perfectly adapted to extract the nectar deep into the flowers.
Insects
While nectar is the mainstay of their diet, hummingbirds also eat insects for protein. They catch insects in mid-air or pluck them from spider webs. Common prey for hummingbirds includes small spiders, fruit flies, gnats, and mosquitoes.
Sap
In addition to nectar and insects, hummingbirds also eat sap. They often pierce tree bark with their beaks to access the sap, which provides them with essential nutrients such as calcium and potassium.
What are some unique species of hummingbirds that can be found in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania boasts a remarkable diversity of hummingbirds, with several unique species calling it home. These songbird-sized wonders include the Ruby-throated Hummingbird, the sole breeding species found in the state. Additionally, vagrant species like the Rufous Hummingbird and Anna’s Hummingbird occasionally grace Pennsylvania with their vibrant presence. Witnessing this diversity of hummingbirds in Pennsylvania can truly be a delight for nature enthusiasts.
The Presence of Hummingbirds in North Carolina
Conclusion
North Carolina is a haven for hummingbirds, with its diverse ecosystems providing a home for nine unique species. These small but mighty birds can be found nesting in various areas of the state, from the mountains to the coast.
If you’re interested in observing them, the optimal season is from late spring to early fall, when they are most active. In terms of their diet, hummingbirds primarily consume nectar from flowers, but they also feed on insects and sap.
Seeing how these tiny creatures survive on such a unique and specialized diet is fascinating. So if you’re in North Carolina, keep an eye out for these colorful and agile birds, and take the time to appreciate the beauty and intricacies of their dietary practices.
