Ruby-throated Hummingbird look-alikes

Key differences

Primarily found in western North America. Males have a black gorget with a thin iridescent purple band at the bottom, not ruby-red. Females and juveniles are very similar to Ruby-throated, but Black-chinned often have a slightly longer, more decurved bill and a less deeply forked tail. Geographic range is the primary differentiator.

Key differences

Males are largely rufous (orange-brown) on the back and flanks with an iridescent orange-red gorget. Females have rufous flanks and some rufous on the tail. Rufous Hummingbirds are primarily western, though they can be found in the eastern US during migration, especially in late summer/fall. Their rufous coloration is a clear distinction.

Key differences

Males have a rose-magenta gorget and green back. Females are green-backed with rufous flanks. Found in western mountains. The male's wings produce a distinctive, loud trilling sound in flight, which is absent in Ruby-throated.