Hummingbirds are known for their bright, iridescent feathers that shimmer in the sunlight. Their vibrant colors make them stand out among other birds. But while all hummingbirds have some level of coloration, some species are far more vivid and multi-hued than others.
Differences in Habitat
One of the main factors that influences hummingbird coloration is habitat. Hummingbirds that live in dense, dark forest areas tend to have duller plumage in shades of green, gray or brown. This camouflages them amongst the vegetation and makes them harder to spot by predators. On the other hand, hummingbirds that inhabit open meadows, mountainsides or backyards have evolved more conspicuous coloring as a way to attract mates and establish breeding territories.
For example, the Rufous Hummingbird which breeds in the Pacific Northwest forests has mostly green and rust-colored feathers to blend in with mosses and tree bark. Meanwhile, the Ruby-throated Hummingbird found in Eastern North America has brilliant red throat feathers and an emerald green back to stand out against grasslands and suburban gardens.
Dull vs Vibrant Species
Here are some examples comparing dull and vibrant hummingbird species:
- Dull species:
- Green Hermit – olive green and gray
- Little Woodstar – greenish upperparts, pale underparts
- Rufous-capped Warblerfinch – gray, olive and rusty
- Vibrant species:
- Ruby-throated Hummingbird – metallic green above, bold red throat
- Violet-tailed Sylph – vibrant violet tail, green body
- Crimson Topaz – turquoise upperparts, crimson underparts
Differences Between Males and Females
Another factor is differences in coloring between male and female hummingbirds within a species. In most species, the males are much brighter and more decorative than the females. This is because males use their vibrant plumage to attract mates and out-compete rival males.
For instance, male Anna’s Hummingbirds have a deep rose-pink throat and crown, while females are mostly grayish-green. Male Costa’s Hummingbirds have a violet-blue crown and gorget, compared to the female’s pale white underside. This pronounced sexual dimorphism allows the female to camouflage on the nest, while the male puts on colorful displays to impress prospective partners.
Comparisons of Sexual Dimorphism
Here are some examples of sexual dimorphism in hummingbird species:
| Species | Male Coloration | Female Coloration |
|---|---|---|
| Anna’s Hummingbird | Rose-pink throat, green crown | Grayish-green |
| Ruby-throated Hummingbird | Ruby-red throat, emerald green back | Green upperparts, white underparts |
| Rufous Hummingbird | Orange throat, green back | Green upperparts, pale cinnamon underparts |
Dietary Pigments
The types of pigments found in a hummingbird’s diet also directly affect its colors. Hummingbirds get various carotenoid pigments from the nectar and insects they eat. These pigments are then deposited into the feathers during molting.
Species that include lots of red tubular flowers in their diet tend to display more reddish hues. Examples include the Ruby-throated Hummingbird and Allen’s Hummingbird. On the other hand, hummingbirds that feed more on yellow flowers and aphids exhibit more vibrant yellows and oranges, like the Golden-bellied Starfrontlet.
Sample Dietary Effects on Coloration
| Species | Diet | Coloration |
|---|---|---|
| Ruby-throated Hummingbird | Red tubular flowers | Ruby-red throat |
| Buff-tailed Coronet | Orange flowers, lots of insects | Orange bill, orange tail tips |
| Green Violetear | Variety of nectar, some insects | Green to violet plumage |
Altitude Adaptations
Hummingbirds that thrive at higher elevations also need more conspicuous plumage to attract mates in open mountain habitats. Plus, the colder temperatures require them to absorb as much heat from sunlight as possible. Darker feathers do this better than lighter ones.
For instance, the Giant Hummingbird found in the Andes has very vibrant, turquoise-green plumage. Similarly, the Colorful Puffleg has bright flank feathering despite dwelling in cloud forests. At lower altitudes, such showy coloring would not be as crucial for mating or heat absorption.
High Altitude Species
| Species | Altitude Range | Coloration |
|---|---|---|
| Giant Hummingbird | 8,200 – 15,000 feet | Turquoise-green |
| Ecuadorian Hillstar | 7,000 – 11,500 feet | Green with white tail band |
| Rainbow-bearded Thornbill | 9,800 – 13,100 feet | Rainbow-colored throat feathers |
Conclusion
In summary, hummingbirds exhibit a wide range of colorful plumage depending on factors like habitat, sexual selection, diet, and altitude adaptation. Duller species inhabit dense forests, while bright species occupy open areas. Males also utilize showy feathers to attract mates, while females need more camouflage. Diets rich in certain pigments manifest in brighter reds, oranges and yellows. And high-altitude birds require more vivid colors for signaling and thermoregulation. So next time you see a dazzling hummingbird, you can better appreciate why evolution shaped its unique beauty and colors.
