Washington state is home to a diverse variety of hummingbirds. Hummingbirds are known for their small size, rapid wing beats, and ability to hover in midair. There are over 300 different species of hummingbirds found worldwide, but only a handful regularly breed and nest in Washington.
Common Washington State Hummingbirds
The most widespread and commonly seen hummingbird in Washington is the Rufous Hummingbird. This species breeds throughout the state and is present year-round in some areas west of the Cascades. The male Rufous Hummingbird has a characteristic bright orange-red throat and belly. The female and juvenile birds lack the bright red plumage and are more difficult to distinguish.
Other common hummingbirds in Washington include:
- Anna’s Hummingbird – A year-round resident west of the Cascades. The male has an iridescent reddish-pink throat and crown.
- Calliope Hummingbird – The smallest breeding hummingbird in the U.S. Breeds east of the Cascades in summer. Tiny with metallic green feathers on the back and white underside.
- Black-chinned Hummingbird – A summer breeding resident east of the Cascades. The male has a dark, forked tail and a purple throat band.
When and Where to See Hummingbirds
The best times to observe hummingbirds in Washington are during spring and summer when they are most active and conspicuous. Here is a summary of when various species arrive and depart the state:
- Rufous Hummingbirds – Some remain year-round along the coast and Puget Sound. Most migrate south in fall and return in early spring.
- Anna’s Hummingbird – Present year-round in western Washington with peak numbers in summer.
- Calliope Hummingbird – Arrives in eastern Washington in May to breed. Most depart by late summer/early fall.
- Black-chinned Hummingbird – Typically arrives in eastern Washington in late spring. Most leave by mid-September.
The most reliable places to find hummingbirds in Washington are:
- Backyard feeders – Especially in rural and suburban areas with mature flowering plants.
- Botanical gardens and parks – Particularly those with naturalized areas or native flowering plants.
- Higher elevation mountain meadows – Look for Calliope and Rufous Hummingbirds feeding on wildflowers.
- Riparian areas – Hummingbirds often feed and nest along streams, rivers, and wetlands.
Providing Food and Shelter for Hummingbirds
Here are some tips for attracting hummingbirds to your yard:
- Set up feeders with a homemade nectar solution of 1 part white sugar to 4 parts water. Avoid red dyes.
- Choose flowering plants favored by hummingbirds like fuchsias, columbines, and salvias.
- Avoid pesticides so there are plenty of small insects for the birds to eat.
- Provide shrubs and trees for nesting and shelter from the elements.
- Consider installing a hummingbird bath or drippers for drinking and bathing.
- Sit quietly and observe to get the best views of these energetic little birds.
Interesting Facts About Washington Hummingbirds
- Anna’s and Rufous Hummingbirds sometimes overwinter west of the Cascades, entering a period of torpor to conserve energy on cold nights.
- The hummingbird’s wingbeat is about 15-80 beats per second depending on the maneuver.
- A hummingbird’s heart rate can reach as high as 1,260 beats per minute.
- Hummingbird nests are tiny – only about 2 inches wide and 1 inch deep.
- Male Rufous Hummingbirds perform elaborate dive displays during the breeding season to attract females.
- Hummingbirds have adapted specially-designed wings that allow them to fly in any direction, as well as hover in place.
Threats and Conservation
The major threats to hummingbirds in Washington include:
- Habitat loss due to development, logging, and agricultural practices
- Climate change and drought conditions
- Collisions with buildings and windows
- Use of pesticides which reduce insect food sources
Ways to help protect hummingbirds include:
- Planting native flowers and trees that provide food and shelter
- Avoiding pesticide overuse in yards and gardens
- Installing screens on windows and otherreflective surfaces
- Supporting land conservation efforts
- Letting dead trees stand for nesting cavities
Conclusion
Washington is a fantastic state to enjoy hummingbird watching. Some of the most common species include the Rufous, Anna’s, Calliope, and Black-chinned Hummingbirds. The birds are present in spring and summer when abundant flowers and nesting habitat is available. Backyards, parks, mountains, and other natural areas are great places to look for them. Providing nectar feeders, plants, water, and shelter are ways to attract these tiny, energetic birds. While hummingbirds face some conservation threats, there are many actions residents can take to help protect Washington’s special hummingbird populations.