When people think of hummingbirds, the first species that often comes to mind is the ruby-throated hummingbird. This species is known for its bright red throat and rapid wing beats, and it is the most commonly seen hummingbird in much of eastern North America. However, Ohio has actually been home to a total of seven different hummingbird species over the years.
In this blog post, we will explore each type of hummingbird that has been documented in Ohio. Some of these species are common visitors, while others are rare vagrants that only show up occasionally. We will discuss identification tips, migration patterns, feeding behaviors, and how to attract them to your own backyard.
Let’s delve into the diversity of hummingbirds that call Ohio home!
Common Hummingbird in Ohio
The ruby-throated hummingbird (Archilochus colubris) is by far the most widespread and commonly found hummingbird in Ohio. It can be found throughout the state during the spring and summer breeding season. Male ruby-throated hummingbirds have bright metallic green backs and heads, white undersides, and, of course, their namesake brilliant red throats. Females lack the red throat and have more white underneath. Both males and females have long, thin bills adapted for drinking nectar from flowers.
These tiny birds arrive in Ohio each spring after completing a 500-mile non-stop migration across the Gulf of Mexico from their wintering grounds in Central America. Throughout the summer breeding season, ruby-throats aggressively defend feeding territories around nectar-rich flowers and feeders. Males perform elaborate aerial displays to impress females and ward off intruders. By late September, they begin their migration back south to Central America, flying non-stop over the Gulf once again.
Uncommon Types of Hummingbirds in Ohio
In addition to the ruby-throated hummingbird, several other species of hummingbirds have been spotted in Ohio as rare migrants. These species include the rufous hummingbird, black-chinned hummingbird, Mexican violetear, calliope hummingbird, Allen’s hummingbird, and Anna’s hummingbird. While these species are less common, birdwatchers should keep an eye out for them, especially during migration periods.
The rufous hummingbird (Selasphorus rufus) is a feisty western species that occasionally wanders east during migration. Males have bright orange backs and bellies, while females have greenish backs with rusty flanks. A few rufous hummingbirds pass through Ohio each fall and can be attracted to feeders.
The black-chinned hummingbird (Archilochus alexandri) is a western cousin of the ruby-throat. Males have a dark purple throat patch and a white collar, while females have pale undersides with green backs. Only one black-chinned hummingbird sighting has been confirmed in Ohio, but others may have gone undetected.
Rare Vagrant Hummingbird Species in Ohio
In addition to migrant hummingbirds, a few vagrant species have been observed in Ohio as very rare visitors. These species include the Mexican violetear, calliope hummingbird, Allen’s hummingbird, and Anna’s hummingbird. These hummingbirds are not typically found in Ohio and their sightings are considered exceptional.
The Mexican violetear is a large hummingbird that lives year-round in Central America and southern Mexico. It is an exceptionally rare hummingbird in Ohio, with only a couple of records. Males have violet ear patches, and females have white markings on the face. The migration patterns of the Mexican violetear are not well-studied, but it may visit backyards in Ohio during spring and summer.
The calliope hummingbird is the smallest breeding hummingbird in the United States. Males have colorful streaking on their throats. They typically breed in the western states but occasionally wander east as far as Ohio in fall and winter.
The Allen’s hummingbird is a small green and orange hummingbird that is a rare winter visitor along the Ohio Lake Erie shoreline. Males have bright reddish-orange throats, and females have grey underparts. They breed along the Pacific Coast.
Anna’s hummingbirds are another western species that occasionally visit Ohio as very rare winter visitors. They are green with grey undersides, and males have a distinctive magenta head and throat.
Attracting Hummingbirds to Your Backyard
While the ruby-throated hummingbird is the only common species in Ohio, there is still a chance to attract some of the rarer hummingbirds to your backyard. Here are some tips:
- Put up nectar feeders with a simple 1:4 ratio of sugar to water. Avoid adding red dye and change the nectar every few days to prevent spoilage.
- Plant native flowers and shrubs that appeal to hummingbirds, such as bee balms, cardinal flowers, and trumpet vines. These plants will also attract insects, which the birds eat.
- Provide a freshwater source with a hummingbird bath or drippers.
- Avoid using pesticides, as they can poison the birds or kill off their insect prey.
- Consider using special feeders that accommodate rare migrants, as they may have different feeding preferences.
With the right habitat, you may be lucky enough to have one of Ohio’s rare hummingbirds visit your yard. It takes patience and dedication, but the reward of seeing these beautiful birds up close is worth it.
Final Thoughts
While the ruby-throated hummingbird is the most common species in Ohio, keep an eye out for the possibility of rarer species dropping by, especially during migration periods. Vagrant hummingbirds often go undetected, so spread the word when one turns up in your area. Share your sightings and photos on community birding websites like the Journey North website.
Learning how to identify the different hummingbird species makes birdwatching even more interesting. New arrivals could show up at any time in the Buckeye State. So equip your backyard with a diversity of flowers, provide fresh nectar and water, and be ready if a rare hummingbird comes buzzing into your neighborhood!
Now, over to you! Feel free to leave a comment below. I’d love to hear your opinion on this. And until next time, thanks for stopping by, and happy bird watching.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are the 7 types of hummingbirds found in Ohio?
A: The 7 types of hummingbirds found in Ohio are the Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Rufous Hummingbird, Black-chinned Hummingbird, Mexican Violetear, Calliope Hummingbird, Allen’s Hummingbird, and Anna’s Hummingbird.
Q: Is the Ruby-throated Hummingbird common in Ohio?
A: Yes, the Ruby-throated Hummingbird is the most common and widespread hummingbird that visits Ohio.
Q: What distinguishes male Rufous Hummingbirds from other species?
A: Male Rufous Hummingbirds have bright orange backs and bellies, making them stand out from other species.
Q: Where do Calliope Hummingbirds usually live?
A: Calliope Hummingbirds typically live in the western United States but are occasional accidental visitors to Ohio.
Q: Are Black-chinned Hummingbirds frequently spotted in Ohio?
A: No, Black-chinned Hummingbirds are rare in Ohio, with only a few confirmed sightings.
Q: How can I attract hummingbirds to my yard in Ohio?
A: To attract hummingbirds in Ohio, set up nectar feeders, plant native tubular flowers, provide fresh water, and avoid using pesticides.
Q: What is unique about the female Ruby-throated Hummingbird’s appearance?
A: Female Ruby-throated Hummingbirds lack the iridescent red throat of males and have a more white underside.
Q: What migration route do Ruby-throated Hummingbirds take?
A: Ruby-throated Hummingbirds migrate between Ohio and Central America, crossing the Gulf of Mexico non-stop.
Q: What type of food do Ohio hummingbirds prefer?
A: Hummingbirds in Ohio feed on nectar from flowers and feeders, as well as small insects and spiders.
Q: How rare are Mexican Violetear Hummingbirds in Ohio?
A: Mexican Violetear Hummingbirds are very rare in Ohio, with only a couple of records.
Q: Do hummingbirds eat during the breeding season?
A: Yes, during the breeding season, hummingbirds actively feed on nectar and insects for energy.
Q: What physical feature is prominent in male Allen’s Hummingbirds?
A: Male Allen’s Hummingbirds are noted for their bright reddish-orange throats and green backs.
Q: Are Calliope Hummingbirds the smallest bird species in the United States?
A: Yes, the Calliope Hummingbird is the smallest bird species in the United States.
Q: How can I distinguish female hummingbirds from male hummingbirds?
A: Female hummingbirds typically lack the bright throat colors seen in males and often have duller feather coloring.
Q: What time of year do hummingbirds usually arrive in Ohio?
A: Hummingbirds usually arrive in Ohio in late April or early May.
Q: Are Rufous Hummingbirds considered common in Ohio?
A: No, Rufous Hummingbirds are uncommon in Ohio, often seen as accidental visitors.
Q: What are the feeding habits of Ohio hummingbirds?
A: Hummingbirds in Ohio feed on nectar from flowers and feeders, as well as small insects, for protein.
Q: Can Black-chinned Hummingbirds be found throughout Ohio?
A: No, Black-chinned Hummingbirds are rare in Ohio and not found throughout the state.
Q: Are hummingbirds known for being vocal in the United States?
A: Yes, hummingbirds, including those in Ohio, are known to be vocal, especially during mating displays.
Q: What is the breeding season for Ruby-throated Hummingbirds in Ohio?
A: The breeding season for Ruby-throated Hummingbirds in Ohio typically spans the summer months.