Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Archilochus colubris

The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is the only hummingbird commonly found in the eastern United States, and is the only hummingbird commonly found in the eastern half of South Dakota.  They have only rarely been found breeding in South Dakota, but given their presence throughout the summer, especially in the extreme eastern portion of the state, they are likely consistent breeders in the state.  The Ruby-throated Hummingbird migrates non-stop across the Gulf of Mexico to its normal wintering grounds in Central America.  A male is pictured in the photo on the right, with its deep ruby-throat giving the species its name.  Additional photos, including those of a female, can be found at the bottom of the page

Habitat:  Can be found in a wide variety of semi-open habitats with suitable feeding locations

Diet: Feeds primarily on nectar from flowers.  Also will take a variety of small insects and spiders.  They occasionally have been found feeding on the sap wells created by the various species of sapsuckers (see photo #7 at the bottom of the page).

Behavior: Other than during mating season, Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are often not very social.  Although numbers may be found in the same general area, individual birds will often vigorously defend prime feeding patches.  Extremely active during daylight hours, their day primarily consists of feeding, with short periods of rest in between. 

Nesting: June through August

Breeding Map: Breeding Bird Survey map

Song: Ruby-throated Hummingbird Song

Migration: Summers throughout the eastern half of the U.S. and extreme southern Canada.  Primarily winters in Mexico and Central America.

Similar Species: Broad-tailed Hummingbird, Black-chinned Hummingbird

Feeders:  Will attend feeders for sugar water.  Will attend flower gardens for nectar.

Conservation Status: Generally stable throughout its range.

Further Information: 1) Patuxent Bird Identification InfoCenter, Ruby-throated Hummingbird

2) Cornell University's "All About Birds - Ruby-throated Hummingbird"

3) eNature.com: Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Photo Information: June 10th, 2008 - Our house in Brandon, South Dakota - Terry Sohl

Additional Photos: Click on the image chips or text links below for additional, higher-resolution Ruby-throated Hummingbird photos.