What hummingbirds are
Hummingbirds are tiny birds that hover by beating their wings very fast. They eat nectar and small insects, and they can fly forwards, backwards, and even upside down for short moments.
Shapes, colors, and sizes
To tell different kinds apart, look at these features:
- Shape: most have slender bodies, long curved beaks, and tiny feet. Some are a bit stockier; tail shapes can also help identify the species.
- Color: many have iridescent feathers that shine in the sun. Males often wear bright gorgets (throats), while females are greener or more muted.
- Size: hummingbirds are usually 3 to 5 inches long, but some are a little smaller or larger. In a garden, a smaller bird might be a juvenile or a different species than a larger one.
Common hummingbird types you might see in California gardens
Note: exact species vary by year and location, but these are commonly seen around California gardens, including Ventura:
- Anna's Hummingbird — male has a rose-pink throat; female is green with a pale throat.
- Costa's Hummingbird — male has a bright purple throat; female is greenish with a pale throat.
- Allen's Hummingbird — male has a purple gorget; female is green with slight streaks.
- Black-chinned Hummingbird — male has a black chin with a purple throat; female is green and white.
What we saw during lunch
Seeing a hummingbird during lunchtime is common because they visit bright flowers and feeders throughout the day. If you sit quietly near a feeder, you might notice a tiny bird sipping nectar and zipping between flowers.
Fun activity you can try at home
- Draw three hummingbirds with different shapes and colors.
- Observe any birds at a feeder and describe them using shape, color, and size.
- Make a simple field guide card for the hummingbirds in your neighborhood garden.