Hobbies And Interests
Allen's
Allen's hummingbirds prefer coastal areas with their breeding area being limited to the extreme west coast, from southern Oregon through California. Male Allen's choose open areas to claim as their territory while females choose to build nests in areas with thick vegetation and heavy cover. These birds migrate south as early as mid-May and winter in coastal regions of Mexico.
Rufous
These birds spend much of their time on the move. Their migration route encompasses approximately the western third of North America reaching as far north as Alaska. Like other hummers, Rufous winter in Mexico. Their preferred nesting grounds are typically open areas that end at a tree line.
Anna's
Anna's hummingbirds can be found in much of the same territory as the Allen's. However, the Anna's are basically non-migratory, remaining in the same area year-round. This bird's breeding range has expanded over the second half of the 20th century from the southern part of California to now encompass the majority of the west coast. Anna's are commonly seen in urban areas and are one of the few hummingbird species known for its song.
Costa's
The Costa's territory is limited to the extreme southwestern United States dipping slightly into Mexico during their winter migration. These desert dwellers build loosely constructed nests in scrub areas less than 6 feet above ground level.
Ruby-Throated
These hummingbirds are the only North American species to breed in the eastern half of the United States. They prefer woodland areas but are often seen in gardens and frequent hummingbird feeders. Ruby-throated hummingbirds winter in Mexico and Central America. In preparation for their migratory flight across the Gulf of Mexico these little birds will double their weight to prepare for the journey.