Meet the Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Save Our Pollinators! The Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Archilochus colubris) is the only breeding hummingbird in Eastern North America. The male bird has a red throat and dull green back feathers, and the females have golden green back feathers, lacking the red throat. The ruby throated hummingbirds often live in deciduous forests, old fields, or meadows. This species feeds on nectar from a variety of flowers, including trumpet creeper, cardinal flower, honeysuckle, jewelweed, and many more. This hummingbird also explores suburban areas for hanging plants and feeders. Interestingly enough, the hummingbird beats its wings 53 times per second. They have extreme bodily control and coordination while flying, and can hover perfectly in midair. This species is of “Least concern” right now, and this is good because they are very influential as pollinators. When they go around looking for nectar, they pick up pollen on their bodies and bring it to other flowers, pollinating as efficiently as honey bees. To learn more about the Ruby-throated hummingbird, visit: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Ruby-throated_Hummingbird/lifehistory#

This Wildlife Wednesday provided by Zander Hine, ACWA Student Board Member