Species · GBIF taxon 2476852
Allen's Hummingbird
Selasphorus sasinAlso known as Allen's Hummer
Allen's Hummingbirds are compact, feisty dynamos of the Pacific coast, known for their brilliant copper-orange plumage and aggressive territorial defense. Males perform spectacular aerial displays, diving in a steep J-shaped trajectory while their tail feathers produce a sharp, metallic whistle. They rely on a continuous succession of coastal blooms and tiny insects to fuel their incredibly high metabolism.
MigratoryNectarivoreTerritorial
- diet
- Nectar and small insects
- family
- Trochilidae
- threats
- Habitat loss, climate change shifting bloom times, and pesticide use
- life Span
- 3 to 5 years
NT
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Populations have declined significantly due to habitat loss along their narrow coastal breeding range.
Keep a respectful distance of at least ten feet from active nests to avoid causing the female to abandon her eggs.- Plant native flowers: Grow tubular red and orange blooms like California fuchsia and hummingbird sage to attract them naturally.
- Maintain clean feeders: Clean sugar-water feeders every few days with hot water to prevent deadly mold growth.
- Provide nesting material: Leave spiderwebs and soft plant down intact, as females use them to bind their tiny cup nests.