Species Spotlight: Rufous Hummingbird

Rufous Hummingbird (Selasphorus rufus) hovering while feeding at flowers at San Elijo Lagoon, San Diego, California, United States

How does the female rufous hummingbird feed her young?

The female sticks her bill deep into their mouths, regurgitating tiny insects mixed with nectar.

What materials does the rufous hummingbird use to build its nest?

The female uses soft plant down tied with spider web and camouflages the outside of the nest with moss, lichen and bark.

How do rufous hummingbirds defend their territory?

Remarkably pugnacious, males guard a territory of flowers in a meadow, actively chasing away all trespassers, including larger birds.

 

How You Can Help