Bird
Black-chinned Hummingbird
Archilochus alexandriBlack-chinned hummingbirds are highly adaptable nectar-feeders found across a wide variety of western habitats, from arid deserts to urban backyard gardens. Males display a dark, velvety chin backed by a brilliant iridescent violet band that flashes brightly when catching direct sunlight. During spring courtship, males perform dramatic pendulum-like dive displays from high perches, their wings producing a distinctive low humming sound as they hover.
MigratoryNectar EaterFast-flying
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & preyFlower nectar, Gnats, Small spiders
Predators
- Praying mantises
- Domestic cats
- Small hawks
ThreatsHabitat loss, window strikes, outdoor cats, and pesticide exposure
HabitatsDeserts, mountain forests, riparian canyons, orchards, and gardens
Life span3–6 years
Classification
- OrderApodiformes
- FamilyTrochilidae
- GenusArchilochus
- SpeciesArchilochus alexandri
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
- Feeder Placement: Hang nectar feeders in shady spots and clean them every few days to keep nectar fresh.
- Planting Native Flowers: Grow tubular blooms like penstemon, salvia, and agastache to offer natural food.
- Territory Watching: Look for perching males on exposed high twigs monitoring their feeding patches.
Competitor Michelle Lynn Reynolds / CC BY-SA 3.0 · cc-by-sa
Frequent Companion Robert McMorran, United States Fish and Wildlife Service / Public domain · cc0
Co-occurring Species no rights reserved, uploaded by Irene · cc0
Close Relative jeffreyw / CC BY 2.0 · cc-by
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Backyard Birds
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