Species Profile: Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Common Name: Ruby-throated Hummingbird
Scientific Name: Archilochus colubris

Location: Seen in Central Texas primarily during spring and fall migrations. Common in gardens, parks, forest edges, and near flowering trees and shrubs.

Mating Habits: Males arrive before females and defend territories with dramatic aerial displays. After mating, females build and tend nests alone, placing them on tree branches and camouflaging with lichen and spider silk.

Seasonal Habits / Migratory Patterns: Long-distance migrant. Passes through Central Texas in March–May (northbound) and August–October (southbound). Breeds further north and winters in Central America.

Ecological Relevance: Important migratory pollinator for a wide range of native plants. Plays a role in the reproductive cycles of tubular-flowered plants in Texas and beyond.

Interesting Facts:

• Males have a brilliant red throat (gorget) that appears dark unless in direct sunlight.

• Weighs less than a nickel and can fly non-stop over the Gulf of Mexico.

• Beats wings up to 50 times per second and can hover, fly backward, and dive.

Native Plant Associations: Feeds on coral honeysuckle, penstemon, red salvia, trumpet creeper, and crossvine. Also uses sugar water feeders during migration.

Conservation Note: Support migration by planting nectar-rich flowers and keeping clean feeders available during peak migration periods. Avoid pesticides and keep cats indoors during migration.