Hummingbirds are some of the most fascinating birds in the world. Their ability to hover mid-air and fly backwards sets them apart from other avian species. With over 300 different hummingbird species, these tiny birds can be found across the Americas. But when it comes to U.S. states, which one is home to the largest population of hummingbirds?
About Hummingbirds
Hummingbirds are in the family Trochilidae and are the smallest of all birds. Their name comes from the characteristic hum made by their rapidly beating wings which flap on average around 50 times per second. Their extremely high metabolism requires frequent feeding and they have coevolved with flowering plants which provide their main energy source, nectar.
Some key facts about hummingbirds:
- There are over 300 different hummingbird species
- They are only found naturally in the Americas – from Alaska to Chile
- They have an extremely fast metabolism and high heart rate
- Hummingbirds can hover in midair by rapidly flapping their wings 12-80 times per second
- They can fly backwards and upside down
- Hummingbirds drink nectar through their long, slender beaks
- Some species are migratory while others are permanent residents
With their speedy flight and signature humming sound, these tiny birds play an important role as pollinators. Their population numbers can vary across different parts of the Americas based on habitat, food availability and other factors. When it comes to the United States, certain states seem particularly well-suited for hummingbirds to thrive.
Factors That Attract Hummingbirds
What conditions make for an ideal hummingbird environment? There are several key factors that can draw these birds to take up residence in a certain habitat:
Nectar Sources
Abundant flowering plants provide essential energy. Native plants suited to a state’s climate tend to be best. Introduced ornamental and garden plants can supplement food availability.
Water
A clean, fresh water source provides drinking and bathing opportunities. Streams, misters and bird baths help attract hummingbirds.
Nesting Sites
Trees, shrubs and human-provided nest boxes give safe spots for nest building and raising young.
Climate
Hummingbirds thrive in warmer climates with mild winters. Cold snaps and freezing temperatures can be dangerous.
Habitat Variety
Diverse habitats like meadows, woodlands, gardens with a mix of open and sheltered areas tend to support more hummingbird species.
Minimal Use of Pesticides
Limited chemical pesticide use ensures a healthy insect population for food and reduces toxicity.
Feeders
Supplemental nectar feeders provide calories between flower blooms and help attract and sustain hummingbird populations, especially during migration.
The states that excel in several of these categories provide the best environments to support hummingbirds throughout the year or during critical migration times.
Major Hummingbird Species in the U.S.
There are over a dozen species of hummingbirds commonly seen in the United States. Here are some of the most widespread and numerous:
Ruby-throated Hummingbird
The ruby-throated hummingbird (Archilochus colubris) is the most common east coast species. As many as three-quarters of U.S. feeder visitors are ruby-throats. The male has an iridescent ruby red gorget (throat patch).
Rufous Hummingbird
The rufous hummingbird (Selasphorus rufus) is the most common west coast hummingbird. They breed farther north than any other species. The males have a distinctive rufous (red-orange) colored plumage.
Anna’s Hummingbird
Anna’s hummingbird (Calypte anna) can be found along the Pacific coast and parts of the southwest year-round. The males have iridescent rose-pink throat feathers.
Allen’s Hummingbird
Allen’s hummingbird (Selasphorus sasin) prefers the coastal regions from southern California to Mexico. The male’s throat feathers are rufous and emerald green.
Black-chinned Hummingbird
The black-chinned hummingbird (Archilochus alexandri) breeds across the western United States. Males have a dark, shimmering purple throat band.
Calliope Hummingbird
The tiny Calliope hummingbird (Selasphorus calliope) breeds in the mountain west and northwest U.S. Unique streaked throat feathers shine in magenta and purple.
Broad-tailed Hummingbird
Broad-tailed hummingbirds (Selasphorus platycercus) breed across the Rocky Mountains and west coast. Males have a shimmery red throat and make a loud buzzing sound during courtship displays.
The most abundant hummingbird species can vary by region, but these comprise the major U.S. breeding hummingbirds that influence population numbers.
Key States for Hummingbirds
Based on species diversity and overall population numbers throughout the year, several U.S. states stand out when it comes to hummingbirds.
Arizona
With over a dozen regularly occurring species, Arizona provides critical habitat for hummingbirds. From desert scrub to high mountain meadows, this state has a wide variety of food sources and nesting areas to support both year-round resident species and migrants. Southeast Arizona is an especially popular wintering ground for rufous, black-chinned, broad-billed and other species.
Texas
The big state of Texas hosts incredible hummingbird diversity and large seasonal populations. Up to 19 species have been recorded here, with migrants like ruby-throated, rufous and black-chinned mixing with residents like buff-bellied, Lucifer and Anna’s hummingbirds. Flowers like Turk’s cap mallow and mealy blue sage provide food.
California
California’s mild Mediterranean climate attracts Anna’s hummingbirds year-round along with wintering rufous, Allen’s, black-chinned and others. Diverse flowers, shrubs and trees along the coast and in the mountains provide nectar for resident and visiting hummingbirds. California also has a strong ethic of native plant gardening to support pollinators.
New Mexico
With up to a dozen species breeding here and excellent wintering grounds, New Mexico is prime hummingbird real estate. The varied topography includes Chihuahuan desert, shortgrass prairie and mountain ranges. A network of riparian areas provide habitat connections for migrating hummingbirds.
Florida
Although Florida only has one breeding species – the ruby-throated hummingbird – this state becomes a critical winter refuge. From October through March, flowers and feeders may be mobbed by hundreds of visiting hummingbirds escaping colder regions. So while species diversity is low, seasonal population numbers explode.
| State | Key Reasons for Large Hummingbird Numbers |
|---|---|
| Arizona | High species diversity, year-round residents, excellent winter habitat |
| Texas | Excellent species diversity, abundant flowers/plants, resident and migratory populations |
| California | Strong native plants, mild winters attract residents and migrants |
| New Mexico | Varied habitat supports residents and migrants, winter habitat |
| Florida | Critical winter refuge attracts huge migratory populations |
And the State With the Most Hummingbirds Is…
Based on the prime conditions found in these top states, the title of the state with the most hummingbirds has to go to:
Texas
Here’s a recap as to why Texas comes out on top:
- Has an incredible diversity of hummingbird species, up to 19 recorded
- Enormous geographic size provides varied habitat suited to different species
- Flowers like Turk’s cap mallow and mealy blue sage offer excellent nectar sources
- Hosts large migratory populations that breed in or pass through the state
- Has both tropical and temperate species within its borders
- Good mix of urban and natural areas provide feeders as well as native plants
With mountains, desert, tropical and temperate areas all contained within one state, Texas can meet the needs of nearly any hummingbird species. This diversity of habitat allows both summer breeding populations and winter migrants to thrive. The massive network of rivers and streams also provides accessible water sources. So while other states boast impressive hummingbird numbers, the size and biodiversity of Texas pushes it to the top spot for total overall hummingbird population in the U.S.
Conclusion
Hummingbirds occupy a special place in the avian world. Their speed, agility and non-stop motion have captivated people across the Americas. Providing the right conditions allows these energetic birds to thrive. While hummingbird species and populations vary across the U.S., a diverse mix of food, habitat, water and nesting sites will encourage them to multiply. For true hummingbird abundance though, Texas stands above other states as the winner. With an ideal climate, massive geographic area and incredible diversity of landscapes, Texas offers everything hummingbirds need to flourish. The numbers agree, awarding this big southern state the title of having the most hummingbirds in the nation. So next time you are out enjoying these flying jewels, Texas may be the ideal place to witness them in all their glory.
