Calliope hummingbird

Calliope Hummingbird

Calliope hummingbird (Selasphorus calliope)

The Calliope hummingbird (Selasphorus calliope) is a species of hummingbird found in North America. It is the smallest bird species in the United States and Canada, measuring only about 3 inches in length. Named after the Greek muse Calliope, this tiny bird is known for its vibrant plumage and unique characteristics.

Description

The Calliope hummingbird has a distinctive appearance with its green upperparts and white underparts. The male has a magenta-red throat patch, known as a gorget, which shines brightly in the sunlight. This feature is used during courtship displays to attract females. The female, on the other hand, has a white throat and lacks the vibrant colors of the male.

Distribution and Habitat

Calliope hummingbirds are primarily found in the western parts of North America, including the United States and Canada. During the breeding season, they inhabit mountainous regions with coniferous forests, often at high elevations. These birds are known to migrate long distances, with some individuals traveling as far as Mexico and Central America during the winter months.

Behavior

Calliope hummingbirds are highly territorial and fiercely defend their feeding and nesting areas. They are known for their agility and speed, capable of hovering in mid-air and flying backwards. Their diet mainly consists of nectar from various flowering plants, but they also feed on small insects and spiders for protein.

Reproduction

During the breeding season, male Calliope hummingbirds perform elaborate courtship displays to attract females. These displays involve aerial acrobatics, rapid wing beats, and vocalizations. The female builds a small cup-shaped nest made of plant fibers and spider silk, usually placed on a tree branch or shrub. The female lays two tiny white eggs, which she incubates for about 16-18 days. The young hummingbirds fledge after approximately 20-23 days.

Conservation

The Calliope hummingbird is not currently considered a threatened species. However, like many other hummingbird species, it faces threats from habitat loss and degradation. Conservation efforts focus on preserving their natural habitats, promoting the planting of native flowering plants, and reducing the use of pesticides that can harm these delicate birds.

See Also

• Hummingbird
• Bird migration
• List of birds of North America