Hummingbirds of Florida: 11 Amazing Species You Need to See! (With Photos 2024)

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You’ll encounter five fascinating hummingbirds of Florida, with the Ruby-throated Hummingbird leading the pack as your most common backyard visitor.

These tiny aerial acrobats zip through Florida’s gardens, especially in Tampa Bay from March to September.

While Ruby-throats flash their emerald backs and red throat patches year-round, you might spot the copper-colored Rufous Hummingbird or rare purple-crowned Bahama Woodstar along the coast.

These mighty sprites consume half their body weight in nectar daily and perform aerial feats that would make fighter pilots jealous.

With the right flowers and feeders, you’ll transform your yard into their favorite pit stop.

Hummingbirds Found in Florida

You’ll spot several hummingbird species throughout Florida, with the Ruby-throated Hummingbird being the most common visitor to gardens and feeders.

Whether you’re in Tampa Bay, where hummingbird sightings are highest, or elsewhere in the state, you can attract these tiny aerial acrobats with native flowers and sugar-water feeders.

Ruby-Throated Hummingbird

Looking to spot Florida’s most common hummingbird? You’ll find the Ruby-throated Hummingbird zipping through gardens from spring to fall.

These tiny jewels flash their emerald backs and, in males, spectacular ruby-red throats that sparkle in sunlight.

They’re incredibly agile, able to hover perfectly still while sipping nectar from tubular flowers.

During migration, they’ll visit your backyard feeders to fuel up for their incredible journey.

Rufous Hummingbird

You’ll spot the Rufous hummingbird darting through Florida’s gardens with its distinctive copper-orange plumage. These feisty little speedsters pack quite a personality into their tiny frames!

Bahama Woodstar

The rare Bahama Woodstar brings a touch of Caribbean flair to Florida’s southeastern coast.

Male Woodstars sport striking purple head and markings, while females show distinctive orange body twinges.

With their incredibly fast heartbeats, reaching up to 1,260 beats per minute, these tiny birds are a marvel of nature.

Though primarily native to the Bahamas, these tiny visitors occasionally grace Florida’s shores, making each sighting a special treat for local birdwatchers.

Their compact size and unique coloring make them a cherished addition to Florida’s hummingbird family.

Black-Chinned Hummingbird

Among Florida’s rarer visitors, Black-chinned Hummingbirds captivate birdwatchers with their distinctive appearance.

You’ll spot these small wonders by their medium to long curved bills and mostly black gorgets with subtle violet hints.

To attract these birds, enthusiasts often use specialized Black-chinned Hummingbird feeders feeder for Black-chinned Hummingbirds.

While they primarily breed in western states, some venture to Florida’s Gulf Coast during winter months.

Males flash their iridescent purple-black throats, while females sport a more understated gray-green plumage.

Anna’s Hummingbird

Known for its medium size and ruby-red crown, Anna’s Hummingbird navigates through Florida’s diverse landscapes with graceful precision.

You’ll spot their distinctive black bills and vibrant gorgets flashing in the sunlight as they visit feeders and native flowers.

While they’re primarily California residents, these adaptable birds have expanded their range southeast to Arizona, occasionally blessing Florida’s gardens with their mesmerizing aerial displays.

Allen’s Hummingbird

Distinctive Allen’s Hummingbird’s iridescent throat patch flashes orange-red in sunlight, making it a showstopper in Florida gardens. You’ll find these feathered jewels most active during dawn and dusk, darting between flowers with incredible precision.

Hummingbird Migration Patterns

You’ll find Florida’s hummingbirds following two distinct patterns: some species like the Ruby-throated Hummingbird migrate seasonally between breeding grounds and wintering locations, while others such as Anna’s Hummingbird stay in specific regions year-round.

In the Tampa Bay area, you can spot these remarkable birds throughout different seasons, with peak activity occurring when migrating hummingbirds make their way through the state’s varied habitats.

Breeding Range and Wintering Locations

Hummingbirds’ migration patterns read like nature’s most amazing road trip story.

Most species follow distinct routes from their breeding grounds to wintering locations, with the Ruby-throated Hummingbird leading the pack.

You’ll spot these tiny travelers breeding in the eastern United States before they head south for winter.

The Black-chinned Hummingbird breeds in western states and winters along the Gulf of Mexico.

Allen’s Hummingbird sticks to the West Coast, breeding in northern California and Oregon.

The Broad-tailed Hummingbird prefers higher elevations, nesting in mountain meadows from Wyoming to Mexico before migrating south when temperatures drop.

Year-Round Residents in Florida

Florida’s warm climate makes it a perfect haven for several year-round hummingbird residents.

While the Ruby-throated Hummingbird steals the spotlight as the most common permanent resident, you’ll also spot the occasional Bahama Woodstar hanging around the southeastern coast.

Some of these birds, like the Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, migrate alone and follow male hummingbird migration patterns.

These tiny champions have adapted brilliantly to Florida’s subtropical environment, finding plenty of nectar sources throughout the seasons.

During winter months, when northern migrants head south, our local populations actually grow as temporary visitors join the regulars.

You’ll find them buzzing around gardens from Tampa Bay to Miami, especially near feeders and native flowering plants.

Attracting Hummingbirds to Your Yard

You’ll find that setting up feeders with a 4:1 water-to-sugar ratio and planting tubular flowers in red, orange, or pink will transform your Florida yard into a hummingbird haven.

Tampa Bay region boasts the state’s highest concentration of hummingbird activity, making your garden an ideal spot to attract these fascinating flyers, especially from March through September when they’re most active.

Setting Up Hummingbird Feeders

Getting your feeder setup right makes all the difference in attracting these tiny dynamos.

Place feeders about 10-15 feet from shelter, using the classic 4:1 water-to-sugar ratio for nectar.

Keep it clean – rinse with hot water and vinegar every 3-5 days.

For best results, pick feeders with built-in bee guards and perches, and position them away from direct sunlight where you can enjoy watching these aerial acrobats.

Planting Native Flowers and Trees

Beyond feeders, your garden can become a natural buffet for these aerial acrobats.

Native plants offer the perfect mix of nectar and shelter, making your yard a hummingbird paradise.

Here are Florida’s top hummingbird magnets:

• Cardinal flower‘s crimson spikes catch every eye, and planting cardinal flower seeds will provide a stunning display.
• Coral honeysuckle’s tubular blooms provide year-round treats
• Firebush attracts multiple species with its clusters
• Trumpet creeper creates natural perches while feeding

Plant these in sunny spots, and you’ll have front-row seats to nature’s air show.

Providing a Bird Bath

During hot Florida afternoons, a shallow bird bath provides hummingbirds with essential refreshment.

Place it near nectar-rich flowers, keeping the water depth at just 1/2 inch.

Clean it daily with a vinegar solution to prevent algae growth.

For extra appeal, add a gentle water dripper or mister – these tiny acrobats love flying through water droplets.

Position the bath in a shaded spot with clear sight lines.

Hummingbird Feeding Habits

You’ll be amazed to discover how these tiny powerhouses need to consume half their body weight in nectar each day to maintain their incredible flying abilities.

Nectar provides the energy they need.

You’ll often spot Florida’s hummingbirds catching small insects and spiders to get their protein fix.

Nectar and Insect Consumption

When you spot a hummingbird darting between flowers, you’re witnessing just half of their feeding story.

These tiny dynamos don’t survive on nectar alone – they’re skilled insect hunters too.

Your garden’s hummers will snatch up small insects mid-flight, pluck them from spider webs, or grab them right off leaves.

To minimize unwanted insects and make sure a balanced ecosystem is in place, consider using homemade or commercial insect traps for control.

They’ll feast on mosquitoes, gnats, fruit flies, and tiny spiders.

While nectar provides quick energy from garden favorites like honeysuckle and cardinal flowers, insects deliver essential proteins and fats.

That’s why you’ll often see them hovering near flowering plants, catching both treats in one stop.

Energy Requirements and Diet

A typical hummingbird burns through an incredible amount of energy each day, needing to feed 5-8 times per hour.

Your tiny backyard visitor will consume roughly half its body weight in nectar daily, visiting between 1,000-2,000 flowers.

These amazing creatures have the highest metabolic rate of any animal, with heart rates reaching up to 1,260 beats per minute during flight.

To supplement their diet with the necessary protein, hummingbirds also rely on bugs for extra protein.

To maintain this energy level, they’ll drink from feeders every 10-15 minutes and supplement their diet with small insects and spiders for protein.

At night, they enter a state called torpor to conserve energy.

Creating a Hummingbird-Friendly Habitat

You’ll find that creating a welcoming space for Florida’s hummingbirds starts with planting native flowers like firebush, coral honeysuckle, and cardinal flowers in your garden.

By grouping these nectar-rich plants together and adding a simple sugar-water feeder, you’ll transform your yard into a natural refueling station that these tiny dynamos can’t resist.

Native Plants and Trees

Native Florida plants offer the perfect menu for hungry hummingbirds, and by choosing plants that are rich in nectar like those mentioned below, you can help combat the decline of the Ruby-throated Hummingbird population due to habitat loss and climate change.

Your garden can become a natural buffet with these local favorites:

1. Cardinal flower’s bright red blooms attract hummingbirds from spring through fall
2. Coral honeysuckle vines provide sweet nectar and climbing spots
3. Trumpet creeper creates natural perches while feeding
4. Wild columbine offers early spring nutrition

These plants evolved alongside our local hummingbird species, making them ideal food sources year-round.

Firebush and Firecracker

Firebush and firecracker plants are like magnets for Florida’s hummingbirds.

You’ll spot these natural powerhouses bringing constant action to your garden.

Here’s what makes them special:

Plant Type	Bloom Season	Nectar Level
Firebush	Spring-Fall	High
Red Firecracker	Year-round	Very High
Mexican Firecracker	Summer-Fall	Medium
Blue Firecracker	Spring	Medium
Desert Firecracker	Summer	High

Coral Honeysuckle and Powder Puff Trees

Coral honeysuckle and powder puff trees are like nature’s candy shop for hummingbirds, offering a feast of sweet nectar throughout the growing season. Here’s what makes these plants irresistible to our tiny friends:

1. Coral honeysuckle blooms from spring through fall
2. Powder puff trees produce fluffy pink or red flowers
3. Both plants offer high-quality nectar
4. They’re easy to maintain in Florida’s climate

Hummingbird Identification Guide

You’ll find it easier to spot Florida’s hummingbirds when you know their unique physical features.

From the Ruby-throated’s sparkling red throat to the Rufous’s coppery-orange plumage.

By learning each species’ distinctive bill shape, size, and color patterns, you can quickly identify these fascinating birds as they zip through your garden.

Physical Characteristics and Markings

Looking to identify Florida’s hummingbirds? You’ll want to focus on their stunning markings.

Males sport iridescent gorgets—those flashy throat patches—that shimmer from ruby-red to emerald-green as they catch the light.

Keep an eye out for distinctive patterns: ruby-throated hummingbirds showcase emerald backs with white-tipped wing feathers, while Rufous hummingbirds display rich orange-brown plumage across their bodies.

Size and Bill Shape

Bill shape tells you a lot about a hummingbird’s feeding habits.

Ruby-throated hummingbirds have straight bills perfectly suited for tubular flowers, while Black-chinned hummingbirds sport slightly curved bills.

Size-wise, most Florida hummingbirds measure 3-4 inches long, with the Bahama Woodstar being one of the tiniest at just 2.75 inches.

You’ll notice bill length varies from medium to long.

Color and Plumage

You’ll notice stunning color variations in Florida’s hummingbirds, from the Ruby-throated’s emerald back to the Black-chinned’s violet throat patch.

Males sport brilliant iridescent gorgets that flash like jewels in sunlight, while females show more subtle, muted tones for camouflage.

During breeding season, males’ colors become even more intense, with their throat feathers sparkling in shades of red, purple, and blue.

Hummingbird Nesting Habits

You’ll want to understand hummingbird nests if you’re hoping to spot these tiny architects at work in your Florida backyard.

Hummingbirds create walnut-sized nests from spider silk, plant down, and lichen, securing them on slender branches 10 to 90 feet above the ground.

Nest Structure and Location

Discovering a hummingbird’s nest feels like finding nature’s tiniest treasure chest.

These remarkable architects build walnut-sized nests using spider silk, plant fibers, and lichen.

You’ll typically spot their homes 10-20 feet high in trees, carefully woven onto slender branches.

In Florida, Ruby-throated Hummingbirds often choose sheltered locations away from predators, masterfully camouflaging their nests to blend with surrounding bark.

Egg Laying and Incubation

Hummingbird mothers lay two white eggs, each no bigger than a pea, in their walnut-sized nests.

While most birds take turns incubating, female hummingbirds handle this task solo for 14-16 days.

They’ll leave the nest briefly to feed, returning like clockwork every 15-20 minutes.

At night, they enter a state called torpor, slowing their metabolism to conserve energy while keeping their eggs warm.

Fledgling Care and Development

Tiny balls of fluff transform into aerial acrobats during their first three weeks of life.

Parent hummingbirds feed their nestlings every 20 minutes, delivering a mix of nectar and small insects through regurgitation.

At 18-22 days old, fledglings begin testing their wings with short practice flights near the nest.

The dedicated mother continues feeding them for another week until they master independent flight and foraging skills.

Hummingbird Flight Capabilities

You’ll marvel at Florida’s hummingbirds as they zip through your garden at speeds up to 30 miles per hour, darting forward, backward, and even upside down.

Hummingbirds are tiny acrobats that hover perfectly still to sip nectar from flowers.

While watching these tiny acrobats hover perfectly still to sip nectar from flowers, you can hear their wings beating up to 80 times per second, creating their signature humming sound.

Hovering and Reverse Flight

One of nature’s most remarkable feats is watching a hummingbird float in mid-air, defying gravity with perfect control.

You’ll see these aerial acrobats hover motionless in front of flowers, their bodies staying perfectly still while feeding.

What makes this even more impressive is their ability to fly backward – something no other bird can do.

Like tiny helicopters, they can move in any direction: up, down, sideways, and even upside down.

This flight mastery comes from specialized shoulder joints and flight muscles that let them rotate their wings in a figure-eight pattern, making them the true masters of the sky.

Wing Movement and Sound

Beyond their incredible hovering abilities, you’ll be amazed by the unique wing movements that create that distinctive humming sound. These aerial acrobats beat their wings in a figure-8 pattern up to 80 times per second, generating both lift and thrust.

When you’re watching them zip around your garden, those rapid movements are actually creating tiny sonic booms!

Hummingbird Gardening Tips

You’ll find that creating a hummingbird garden in Florida isn’t rocket science when you choose the right combination of native plants like firebush, coral honeysuckle, and cardinal flower.

Your garden will transform into a hummingbird haven when you group these nectar-rich plants together and maintain clean feeders filled with fresh sugar water.

Shrimp Plants and Flowering Maple

Among the most reliable hummingbird magnets, shrimp plants and flowering maples stand out in Florida gardens.

Their unique blooms provide steady nectar throughout the growing season.

Shrimp plants dangle peachy-red bracts that look just like their namesake, while flowering maples showcase pendant bell-shaped flowers in vibrant oranges and reds.

Plant these showstoppers near windows, and you’ll have front-row seats to nature’s aerial acrobatics.

Porterweed and Broad-Tailed Hummingbird

Looking for two hummingbird magnets in your Florida garden? Porterweed and Broad-Tailed Hummingbirds make quite the pair. These tiny flyers can’t resist porterweed’s spiky purple blooms, especially during migration season.

• Porterweed grows wild in coastal areas
• Broad-Tailed Hummingbirds visit Florida during winter months
• Plant porterweed in full sun for best blooming
• Watch for the male’s distinctive metallic trilling sound

Red Flowers and Feeders

Through vibrant red flowers and well-maintained feeders, you’ll create an irresistible haven for hummingbirds.

Native plants like cardinal flower and coral honeysuckle naturally draw these tiny visitors, while clean feeders filled with fresh sugar solution (4:1 water-to-sugar ratio) keep them coming back.

For best results, place your feeders near red blooms – it’s like rolling out the welcome mat for these magnificent aerial acrobats.

Hummingbird Conservation and Safety

You’ll need to protect your hummingbird feeders from unwanted visitors like ants and bees while ensuring the sugar solution stays fresh and safe.

Hummingbird feeders should be kept clean and the sugar-to-water ratio should be correct.

This will help keep Florida’s tiny aerial acrobats healthy and coming back for more.

Protecting Feeders From Ants and Pests

Keeping those pesky ants and unwanted visitors away from your hummingbird feeders can feel like a never-ending battle.

You’ll want to start by installing ant moats – these clever water barriers prevent ants from reaching the nectar.

To create a more effective ant barrier, consider using a DIY ant moat system.

For extra protection, try coating the hanging wire with petroleum jelly or placing sticky tape around the pole (sticky side down).

Natural deterrents like cinnamon or bay leaves near the feeder base work wonders too.

Remember to position feeders away from trees and bushes where wasps might nest.

If you spot bees hovering around, temporarily take down the feeder for a day or two.

Safe Sugar Solutions and Feeders

You’ll want to mix one part white granulated sugar with four parts water for your hummingbird nectar – it’s that simple!

Boil the mixture to purify it, then let it cool completely before filling your feeders.

Never use honey, artificial sweeteners, or red dye, as these can harm our tiny friends.

Place your feeders in a shaded spot to prevent the nectar from fermenting, and change the solution every 3-5 days in warm weather.

Clean your feeders thoroughly with hot water and white vinegar between refills to prevent harmful mold growth.

Your local hummingbirds will thank you with frequent visits!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)