RUBY-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD

3"

FIELD IDENTIFICATION: The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is a familiar visitor at nectar feeders in Wise County.  The male is distinctive, with a glowing, iridescent red gorget (throat), long, thin beak, and iridescent green back.  The female lacks the red gorget.

The female Black-chinned Hummingbird is almost identical, and usually cannot be safely identified in the field. 

by Claire Curry

Photo by Claire Curry, in August 2000.

Photo by Mary & Claire Curry in the summer 2002.

Both photos are male Ruby-throated Hummingbirds.