![]() ![]() The rufous hummingbird ( Selasphorus rufus) is a casual migrant most frequently observed in the western half of Missouri July through November. These western species may stay into the winter, and they have been known to survive at nectar feeders heated by floodlights. Similar species: Although a few western hummingbirds are occasionally seen in Missouri, the ruby-throat is by far the most common in our state and throughout the entire eastern United States. Most vagrant hummingbirds from the western United States are detected in Missouri in mid- to late fall, after most ruby-throated hummingbirds have migrated south. Ruby-throated hummingbirds make a variety of “chips,” squeals, and twitters. Immature birds are similar to females, though young males may develop red flecks on the throat by fall. Females have metallic green upperparts whitish underparts the sides pale buff and the tail is tricolored: green at the base, black in the middle, with the three outer tail feathers tipped with white. The side of the head below the eye is black from the bill to the cheek. Males have metallic green upperparts a red throat (gorget) that flashes ruby red in the light but otherwise may look black underparts whitish with dull green flanks and the tail black and deeply forked. It hovers and flies forward and backward with a humming sound. You can also subscribe to our e-newsletter to stay up to date with our birding advice, new products, and exclusive offers.The ruby-throated hummingbird is a tiny bird with a long needlelike bill. Want to stay connected on all things hummingbird? Share your pictures, stories, and advice with us on Facebook or our Birding Community. See trends of where they're going, and how long it takes to get there - even see last years migration through our archives. ![]() Keep an eye on their movements and submit a photo of the hummingbirds you see in your backyard to help us track them. Now that you know more about them, track hummingbirds during their migration with our Interactive Hummingbird Migration Map. ![]() ![]() Prepare for the migration with Perky-Pet ® Hummingbird Feeders » Learn More About Hummingbirds Some hummingbirds will travel over 2,000 miles twice a year during their migration.Hummingbirds fly at an average of 25-30 miles per hour, and are able to dive up to 50 miles per hour.The average life span of a hummingbird is 5 years, but they have been known to live for more than 10 years.A baby hummingbird is roughly the size of a penny and is unable to fly.A hummingbird's heart beats up to 1,260 times per minute.When food is scarce and they are fatigued, hummingbirds go into a hibernation-like state (also known as torpor) to conserve energy.Hummingbirds have weak feet – they mainly use them just for perching.Hummingbirds are the second largest family of birds with over 300 species.Hummingbirds are the only birds that can fly like a helicopter… up, down, sideways, front, and back!.The hummingbird brain is 4.2% of its body weight – this is the largest, in proportion, of the wild bird group.Hummingbirds have a great memory – they remember every flower & feeder they've been to, and how long it will take a flower to refill.Hummingbirds see in ultraviolet light and they can see further than a human.Hummingbirds are attracted to all bright colors, although red is most prominently associated with these tiny birds.Hummingbirds have no sense of smell, but can hear better than humans.A hummingbird's bill is longer in proportion to its body, as compared to other birds.Hummingbirds have tiny hairs on the tips of their tongues to help them lap up nectar similar to a cat.Hummingbirds have tongues that are grooved like the shape of a "W".Shop the New Top-Fill Collection Shop Now ![]()
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