Yes, there are several species of hummingbirds that live in or migrate through the province of Alberta in Canada. Alberta’s location between the Rocky Mountains to the west and the central Canadian plains to the east makes it an important migration route and summer breeding ground for hummingbirds. The most common hummingbird species seen in Alberta are the Ruby-throated Hummingbird, the Rufous Hummingbird, the Calliope Hummingbird, and the Broad-tailed Hummingbird. These tiny, colorful birds visit Alberta primarily in the spring and summer months to take advantage of the proliferation of flowers and insects before migrating south again for the winter. Hummingbirds are a beloved part of Alberta’s ecology and seeing these energetic birds darting from flower to flower is an exciting experience for many birders and nature enthusiasts in the province.
Key Facts About Hummingbirds in Alberta
- At least 4 species of hummingbirds can be found in Alberta – Ruby-throated, Rufous, Calliope, Broad-tailed
- The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is the most widespread and commonly seen species
- The Rufous Hummingbird migrates the farthest of any hummingbird species to reach Alberta in the summer
- Hummingbirds migrate through and breed in Alberta primarily between April and September
- Hummingbirds feed on the nectar of flowering plants and small insects
- Female hummingbirds build tiny, cup-shaped nests to lay their eggs
- Hummingbirds are attacted to tube-shaped red, orange, or pink flowers
- Alberta’s eastern prairie regions and mountain parks are popular hummingbird habitats
What Kinds of Hummingbirds Live in Alberta?
There are four main species of hummingbirds that either migrate through Alberta or take up summer residence and breeding there.
Ruby-throated Hummingbird
The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is the most common and widely distributed hummingbird in eastern North America. In Alberta, it is found primarily in the southern and central regions of the province. This species winters in Central America and Mexico and undertakes an incredibly long migration up through the Great Plains to arrive in Alberta by early May. Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are dazzling green on the back with metallic red throats (males only), white undersides, and a deeply forked tail. They measure only 3-4 inches in length. The Ruby-throated Hummingbirds that migrate to Alberta are typically just passing through on their way further north but some will stay and nest in the region’s meadows and parks.
Rufous Hummingbird
The Rufous Hummingbird is a feisty western species that migrates an astonishing 3000 miles north to reach its breeding grounds in the Pacific Northwest and western Canada. Alberta represents the northeastern limit of the Rufous Hummingbirds range. They show up in western Alberta beginning in May after migrating up the Rocky Mountains. Male Rufous Hummingbirds have spectacular bright orange-red throats and flanks with green-gold iridescence on their backs. Females are green above and white below. Rufous Hummingbirds are common summer residents around Jasper, Banff, and Waterton Lakes National Parks in Alberta. They breed in the mountain meadows and forests before returning south to Mexico for winter.
Calliope Hummingbird
The Calliope Hummingbird is North America’s smallest bird species. It is a rare summer visitor in the Alberta foothills and mountains. The adult male Calliopes are iridescent emerald green on the back with long streaks of magenta-red on the throat as well as tiny dark whisker marks along the white chin. Females lack the colorful throat feathers and are more subtle shades of green above with a pale throat. Calliope Hummingbirds breed at higher elevations in the Alberta Rockies in summer and migrate south to Mexico for winter. They are elusive but can sometimes be seen feeding on bugleweed and other mountain flowers if you are lucky.
Broad-tailed Hummingbird
The Broad-tailed Hummingbird is predominantly found in the western United States but some do migrate north to breed in the mountains of southwestern Alberta. The males have a bright iridescent rose-pink throat patch and scruffy chirping song. Their backs shine with golden-green and coppery feathers. Females are duller with a pale throat and lack the broad outer tail feathers that give the males their name. In Alberta, the Broad-tailed Hummingbirds arrive in May to take advantage of the fresh mountain flowers. They nest in coniferous forests along mountain streams. By October, they will travel south again for the winter.
When Do Hummingbirds Arrive in Alberta?
Most hummingbirds appear in Alberta between early May and early June as they migrate north from their wintering grounds in Mexico and Central America. Here is a breakdown by species:
- Ruby-throated Hummingbird – Begin arriving in early May, peak numbers in June
- Rufous Hummingbird – Arrive mid-May through June
- Calliope Hummingbird – Arrive late May through early June
- Broad-tailed Hummingbird – Arrive mid-May to early June
The first arrivals are often males seeking out the best breeding spots. Females arrive a week or two later. Young hummingbirds fledge and leave the nest by July. Alberta’s hummingbird population peaks in July and August during the busy breeding season. By late August and September, most hummingbirds have begun leaving Alberta and migrating south again for the winter. A few stragglers may linger into October if flowers and food sources remain available.
Peak Hummingbird Activity in Alberta
- Early May: Earliest arrivals show up, mostly Ruby-throated males
- Mid-May to Early June: Big push of arrivals for all species, establishing breeding territories
- July: Nesting, breeding, caring for young in full swing, peak populations
- August: Young fledged, populations begin decline as some birds migrate south
- September: Major exodus as the last hummingbirds leave Alberta for the winter
- October: Possible stragglers remain but most have left by mid-month
Where are the Best Places to See Hummingbirds in Alberta?
Here are some top spots in Alberta to observe hummingbirds in their natural habitat during spring and summer:
Waterton Lakes National Park
Waterton Lakes sits in Alberta’s southwestern corner along the border with British Columbia. It offers beautiful mountain wildflower meadows that attract nesting Rufous, Calliope’s, and Broad-tailed Hummingbirds. The park also maintains nectar feeders to view visiting hummingbirds up close.
Kananaskis Country
Located just outside Calgary, this mountain recreation area provides excellent habitat for Caliope’s and Rufous Hummingbirds along its many hiking trails that traverse mountain wildflower fields during summer.
Cypress Hills Provincial Park
This lush prairie park in southeastern Alberta is frequented by migrating and breeding Ruby-throated Hummingbirds thanks to its diverse mix of open meadows and forested areas full of wildflowers.
Elk Island National Park
Though better known for large hooved mammals, this central Alberta park also hosts Ruby-throated Hummingbirds around its lakeshores and aspen parkland habitat.
Kootenay National Park
The western edge of Alberta joins Kootenay National Park where steep mountainsides blanketed in colorful alpine flowers provide prime breeding habitat for Calliope’s and Rufous Hummingbirds.
Jasper National Park
From mid-May through September, Rufous Hummingbirds abound in Jasper, visiting backyards and nesting in the mountain forests. Various hiking trails offer sightings.
What Do Hummingbirds Eat in Alberta?
Hummingbirds have very high metabolisms and must eat frequently to sustain their energy needs, particularly while breeding. While in Alberta, they get food from these main sources:
Nectar
Hummingbirds feed on the nectar of colorful tubular flowers using their specialized long, slender beaks and tongues. Some favorite Alberta wildflowers include:
- Fireweed
- Indian paintbrush
- Columbines
- Larkspurs
- Twinflower
- Wild bergamot
- Violets
They also readily visit nectar feeders, especially ones with red coloring.
Small Insects and Spiders
Hummingbirds get essential protein by swooping up tiny insects like fruit flies, aphids, mosquitoes, gnats, and spiders from flowers, trees, and streams.
Sap
Hummingbirds will occasionally sip nutrient-rich tree sap for an energy boost, especially from willows, birches, and cottonwoods.
Interesting Hummingbird Facts
Hummingbirds captivate with their diminutive size, dazzling colors, and remarkable flying abilities. Here are some fascinating details about these energetic Alberta visitors:
Tiny and Light
– Hummingbirds weigh only 2-6 grams on average – as light as a penny!
High Speed Flight
– They can fly 25-30 mph and dive up to 60 mph
Hovering in Mid-air
– Hummingbirds hover by rapidly flapping their wings up to 70 times per second
Reversing Directions
– They can fly forward, backward, up, down, sideways, and upside down
High Metabolism
– Hummingbirds have record high metabolism – requiring the energy of 20,000 calories per day
Anna’s Feeding Visits
– An average Anna’s Hummingbird makes about 1,000 feeding trips per day
Long Migrations
– Some species like the Rufous migrate 4,000 miles roundtrip annually
Unusual Clicking Sounds
– Males perform aerial dive displays while making unique clicking sounds
Antifreeze-Like Substance in Blood
– Their blood contains a sugar-protein solution to prevent freezing at high altitudes
Tips for Attracting Hummingbirds in Alberta
Here are some methods for making your property an attractive stopover for migrating and breeding hummingbirds while they are in Alberta each summer:
Provide Nectar Feeders
Use hummingbird feeders with a liquid nectar mix of 1 part white sugar dissolved in 4 parts hot water. Do not use honey, artificial sweeteners, food coloring, or red dye as these can harm hummingbirds. Clean feeders weekly with a diluted bleach solution.
Choose Red Tubular Flowers
Plant red, orange, and pink flowers with tube or trumpet shapes. Hummingbirds are attracted to these colors and can access the nectar. Examples include bee balm, fuchsia, coral bells, trumpet vine, and nasturtiums.
Offer Water Drips or Sprays
Hummingbirds bathe and drink while flying. Install a mister, dripper, or fountain nearby for them to fly through and splash.
Avoid Pesticides
Provide a pesticide-free garden so hummingbirds have access to healthy insects for eating.
Include Perches
Hummingbirds rest periodically between feedings. Have small branches or posts near food sources where they can conveniently perch.
Provide Nesting Materials
Female hummingbirds build tiny nests out of plant down, spider webs, moss, and lichens. Offer these materials in your garden to invite nesting.
Let Wildflowers Flourish
Allow sections of native wildflowers, shrubs, and trees to grow to support natural food sources for hummingbirds.
Conclusion
In summary, hummingbirds are magnificent small birds that pass through Alberta, Canada each year during their massive spring and fall migrations. At least four species including Ruby-throated, Rufous, Calliope’s, and Broad-tailed Hummingbirds stop to breed and nest in the province during the summer months as they journey to and from their wintering grounds. These tiny birds can be observed feeding on flower nectar, catching small insects, bathing, and performing their aerial displays primarily between May and September in Alberta’s mountains and parkland regions if you know where to look. With a few simple habitat enhancements, you may be able to attract these energetic hummingbirds for an up close view in your own backyard. The arrival of hummingbirds is a sure sign warmer weather has returned to Alberta each spring.
