Species · GBIF taxon 5228513
Black-chinned Hummingbird
Archilochus alexandriAlso known as Black-chin, Alexander's Hummingbird
Black-chinned Hummingbirds are exceptionally adaptable nectar-feeders that readily colonize backyard gardens, arid canyons, and mountain forests alike. During the breeding season, males perform dramatic, U-shaped courtship dives from heights of up to 100 feet, accompanied by a high-pitched whirring sound produced by their specialized outer wing feathers. Females build tiny, cup-shaped nests out of plant down and spider silk, which stretch to accommodate the growing chicks as they mature.
MigratoryNectar-feederAgile
Licensed referenceWikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0 · cc-by-sa
- diet
- Nectar and small insects
- family
- Trochilidae
- threats
- Habitat loss, pesticide use, and outdoor domestic cats
- life Span
- 3 to 6 years
LC
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
- Feeder Placement: Hang sugar-water feeders in shaded areas to prevent the nectar from fermenting quickly.
- Native Planting: Grow tubular flowers like salvias, penstemons, and honeysuckle to attract them naturally.
- Nesting Materials: Leave spiderwebs intact in your garden, as females rely on them to bind their nests.