Hummingbirds are found naturally only in the Americas, from Alaska to Chile, with the greatest variety being found in tropical regions. Their small size, high metabolism, and extreme flying habits mean they require specialized habitats to survive. Hummingbirds have adapted to a wide range of conditions across their range, but there are some key features their habitat needs in order to support them.
Climate
Hummingbirds need warm temperatures year-round, as they are unable to survive prolonged freezing conditions or snow cover. The majority of species are found in tropical and subtropical regions where the climate is warm and relatively stable. However, some species can tolerate more temperate climates during summer months and migrate to warmer regions for winter. Anna’s hummingbird has the northernmost year-round range, surviving chilly Pacific Northwest winters due to their ability to go into torpor overnight when food is scarce. All hummingbirds require daytime temperatures warm enough for insect activity and flowering plants.
Food Sources
Flowers are an essential nectar source for hummingbirds and a key factor in their habitat. They favor flowers with atubular or cup-shaped corolla where they can access the nectar with their specialized long bills and tongues. Flowers that are red, orange, or purple are preferred as they are highly visible to the birds. Plants that bloom during the year when hummingbirds are present, whether seasonally or year-round, and provide adequate nectar are critical. Some species that are important for foraging include:
- Sages
- Columbines
- Penstemons
- Trumpet vines
- Fuchsias
- Hawthornes
- Wild buckwheats
- Indian paintbrushes
In addition to nectar, hummingbirds rely on small insects and spiders to meet their high protein needs, particularly during breeding season. They hunt prey on flowers and leaves, in spiderwebs, in crevices, and even snatch insects in midair. Habitats with abundant insects such as mosquitoes, gnats, aphids, flies and beetles help provide this essential food source.
Water
A clean water source for bathing and drinking is vital habitat component for hummingbirds. Moving water from a stream, waterfall, or fountain is preferred, as it helps attract insects for the birds to feed on. Container gardens and other urban garden spaces can be enhanced for hummingbirds by providing a water feature or bird bath, ensuring the water is changed regularly to prevent growth of pathogens.
Shelter and Nest Sites
Mature trees, shrubs, and wooded areas help provide shelter and safe nesting sites for hummingbirds. Many species build tiny cup-shaped nests on high branches, using soft plant down, moss, buds, and spiderwebs to construct them. Others nest in protected rocky overhangs, in bamboo stands, or within bromeliads. Habitats that offer cavities like old woodpecker holes or nest boxes may also be used. Providing sheltered areas with mature vegetation and trees helps hummingbirds safely rest and breed.
Altitude
Elevation is a factor that determines where some hummingbird species reside. Lower elevation tropical forests, up to around 3,000 feet, are favored by species like the white-necked jacobin and mangrove hummingbird. Higher elevation habitats from 3,000 feet up into montane regions, such as mountain meadows and pine-oak forests, are home to species including the berylline hummingbird and amethyst-throated mountain-gem. The defining factor seems to be the combination of relatively warm temperatures and higher productivity at varying elevations.
Other Habitat Features
In natural areas, hummingbirds rely on native plant species that have co-evolved with them and cater precisely to their needs. Maintaining native flowering habitats is key to supporting them. Other features that create prime hummingbird habitat include:
- Minimal pesticide use – chemicals reduce insect food sources
- Open areas for foraging such as meadows, forest edges, and openings
- Low presence of predators like hawks, cats, and snakes
- Protected areas for roosting including thickets and ravines
- Hillsides and canyons that provide varied topography and blooms
Hummingbird Plants by Region
| Region | Plants |
|---|---|
| Southwest U.S. | Chuparosa, Ocotillo, Penstemons, Sages, Agaves |
| Pacific Northwest | Indian Paintbrush, Flowering Currants, Columbines, Monkey Flower |
| Midwest/East Coast | Trumpet Vines, Impatiens, Bee Balm, Verbena |
| Southeast | Coral Honeysuckle, Butterfly Weed, Salvia |
| California | Fuchsias, Manzanitas, California Fuschia, Sages |
| Southwest Mexico | Agaves, Ocotillo, Bougainvillea, Salvia |
| Central America | Heliconias, Ginger, Orchids, Bromeliads, Passionflowers |
| South America | Inga, Angel’s Trumpet, Weigelia, Firebush |
Creating Backyard Habitat
To make your backyard or garden more attractive to hummingbirds, incorporate some of these elements:
- Plant a variety of nectar flowers and trees that bloom through spring, summer, and fall
- Include both low growing and hanging plants as well as taller trees/shrubs
- Choose red, orange, and pink tubular flowers
- Use native plants adapted to your climate and region
- Provide a water feature like a fountain, mister, or bird bath
- Do not use pesticides which reduce insect populations
- Offer supplementary feeders with fresh nectar, cleaned regularly
- Include protected areas for nesting and roosting
By understanding the ideal habitat needs of hummingbirds and providing the right elements in your yard or garden, you can successfully attract these special birds and enjoy their beauty and activity.
Conclusion
Hummingbirds thrive in warm, tropical environments rich with flowers, insects, water sources, trees, and protected nesting areas. Their unique adaptations allow them to inhabit diverse regions from Alaska to Chile by finding habitats that meet their specialized needs. By planting the native flowers they coevolved with, providing running water, reducing pesticide use, and offering sheltered areas, we can extend a welcome to these energetic birds in our own backyards.
