Hummingbirds are a family of small, brightly colored birds found only in the Americas. They are known for their ability to hover in mid-air by rapidly flapping their wings 12-80 times per second. Their extremely high metabolisms require them to consume nectar frequently throughout the day from flowers and feeders.
There are over 300 different species of hummingbirds found across North, Central, and South America. In Colorado, there are several species that can be spotted during the warmer months when they migrate to the area to breed. The most common species with red throats seen in Colorado include the Broad-tailed Hummingbird and Rufous Hummingbird.
Broad-tailed Hummingbird
The Broad-tailed Hummingbird (Selasphorus platycercus) is one of the most common hummingbirds found in Colorado during summer. Some key identifying features of the Broad-tailed Hummingbird include:
- Bright reddish-pink throat and crown
- Bright green back and crown
- Long, broad tail feathers with white tips and black central spots
The males have the most vibrant, iridescent reddish-pink throats that they use to attract females. Females have lighter whitish throats. Their range covers the Rocky Mountains and parts of the western United States. In Colorado, they breed mostly in mountain meadows and forests from April to September before migrating further south for winter.
Rufous Hummingbird
The Rufous Hummingbird (Selasphorus rufus) is another common species seen with red throats in Colorado. Identifying features of the Rufous Hummingbird include:
- Bright rufous (reddish-orange) throat feathers
- Bright green back
- White breast
- Long, narrow bill
The males have the brightest red-orange throats while females have lighter white throats with some small red-orange spots. Rufous Hummingbirds breed in the Rocky Mountains in summer and migrate along the Pacific Coast. Their range extends farther north than the Broad-tailed.
When and Where to Spot Them
The best time to spot Broad-tailed and Rufous Hummingbirds with their bright red throats in Colorado is during late spring through summer when they return to breed. Some ideal locations to spot them include:
- Mountain meadows and forests above 5,000 ft elevation
- Areas with many wildflowers like columbine and Indian paintbrush
- Near nectar feeders in mountain towns and parks
- Open scrub and brush habitat along the Front Range and foothills
Specific hotspots for viewing them include Rocky Mountain National Park, Mount Evans, Pikes Peak, and mountain towns like Vail, Breckenridge, Estes Park, and Telluride. Mid to late summer is the peak of breeding season when the male’s red throat coloring will be most vibrant.
Other Hummingbirds in Colorado
While the Broad-tailed and Rufous are the most frequently spotted red-throated species, several other types of hummingbirds can occasionally be found in Colorado as well:
- Calliope Hummingbird – Small with bright purple-red throat, green back, and whitish belly. Breeds at very high elevations.
- Black-chinned Hummingbird – Dark purplish throat with white border. Common in brush along the eastern plains.
- Anna’s Hummingbird – Males have iridescent rose-pink throats and crowns. Rare winter visitor along the southern Front Range.
These less common species do not breed as widely in the region but may pass through during migrations or occasionally overwinter in sheltered microclimates along the Front Range.
Attracting Hummingbirds
To get a close-up view of hummingbirds and their colorful throats, try placing nectar feeders filled with a 1:4 ratio of white granulated sugar dissolved in water near gardens or trees that provide natural sources of nectar. Avoid letting the sugar water spoil or ferment. Also plant native flowers the birds are adapted to such as:
- Columbine
- Larkspur
- Honeysuckle
- Penstemon
- Indian paintbrush
- Fireweed
- Salvia
Avoid pesticides which can be harmful to the birds. Position feeders in shaded spots to help the nectar stay fresh longer. And be sure to clean and disinfect feeders regularly to avoid disease transmission between birds visiting.
Threats and Conservation
Major threats to hummingbird populations in Colorado and across North America include:
- Habitat loss and degradation – Due to factors like urban development, agriculture, grazing, and clearing of forests
- Climate change – Leading to drought, wildfires, and mismatch between migration and food sources
- Pesticides – Can contaminate habitat and poison the tiny birds
- Predators – Like hawks, cats, and squirrels that may prey on nests
Ways to help protect hummingbirds include:
- Plant native flowers and provide clean feeders, especially in urban areas lacking habitat
- Support parks, protected wilderness areas, and open spaces
- Reduce pesticide use in gardens and landscapes
- Keep cats indoors and deter other nest predators when possible
- Participate in citizen science surveys like the Hummingbird Monitoring Network
Taking small actions in our own backyards and communities can go a long way towards supporting hummingbird populations and conserving these special birds for future generations.
Summary
The Broad-tailed and Rufous Hummingbirds are the most commonly observed red-throated hummingbirds in Colorado during summer breeding months. Males of both species have brightly colored red or reddish-orange throats they use to attract mates. The best places to look for them are mountain meadows, forests, scrubland, and nectar feeders above 5,000 ft from May to August. With habitat loss and other threats, we can help by planting native flowers, providing clean feeders, and reducing pesticide use in our communities.
Conclusion
Hummingbirds are a favorite for birdwatchers and nature lovers across Colorado because of their diminutive size, dazzling colors, and energetic personalities. Of the species that visit the state, the Broad-tailed and Rufous are distinguished by their vibrant red throats that light up mountainsides each summer. Observing them is a highlight of the season and a reminder to take care of the habitats and food sources these tiny migrants depend on along their extraordinary journey.
