How to identify the Rufous Hummingbird

To correctly identify the Rufous Hummingbird (Selasphorus rufus), check each of these features. Birds can be tricky: habit, habitat, and call often confirm a sighting that a single photo cannot.

Size at a glance

Length

7-9 cm (2.8-3.5 in)

Wingspan

11 cm (4.3 in)

Weight

2-5 g (0.07-0.18 oz)

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Adult males are predominantly rufous (rusty orange) on the back, flanks, and tail, with a brilliant iridescent red-orange gorget (throat patch). The crown is often green. Adult females are green on the back and crown, white on the underparts, with rufous wash on the flanks and base of the tail feathers. They often have a small patch of iridescent orange or bronze on the throat, or streaking. Both sexes have a straight, slender black bill and dark eyes.

2. 2

   Beak shape

   Shape and color of the bill: a key field mark.

   Long, straight, and slender, black.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Dark brown.

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Dark gray to black.

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   Males are unmistakable with their extensive rufous plumage and fiery gorget. Females and juveniles are more challenging, distinguished by the combination of green back, rufous flanks, and rufous in the tail, often with a small amount of iridescent throat color.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juvenile males resemble adult females but often have more extensive rufous on the back and flanks, and developing iridescent orange-red spots or streaks on the throat. Juvenile females are very similar to adult females, sometimes with more prominent rufous on the flanks and tail, and often fine streaking on the throat.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   No significant seasonal plumage changes in adults, though plumage can appear duller when worn. Juveniles gradually acquire adult plumage over their first year.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Pronounced. Males are much more brightly colored with extensive rufous and a full iridescent gorget. Females are duller, primarily green and white with rufous flanks and tail, and a less developed or absent gorget.

Key field marks

• Male Plumage. Look for the extensive rusty-orange (rufous) coloration on the back, flanks, and tail, combined with the brilliant iridescent red-orange gorget. This combination is unique among North American hummingbirds.
• Female/Juvenile Plumage. Observe the green back, white underparts, and distinct rufous wash on the flanks and at the base of the tail feathers. Look for any iridescent orange or bronze on the throat, which can vary from a few spots to a small patch. Pay close attention to the shape of the outer tail feathers; Rufous often have slightly broader, more rounded outer tail feathers compared to Allen's.
• Behavior. Their aggressive and territorial nature is a strong clue. They frequently chase other hummingbirds and will often perch conspicuously on a high branch, scanning their territory.
• Flight Display (Males). During breeding season, males perform a distinctive U-shaped or J-shaped dive display, often accompanied by a loud buzzing sound at the bottom of the dive.
• Vocalizations. Listen for their sharp 'chip' calls and rapid, chattering 'chitter' notes, especially during aggressive interactions.

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