The ruby-throated hummingbird weighs 3.5 grams, slightly more than a penny, but makes up for its size in character. It is the only hummingbird species that nests in Arkansas and is most often seen in the state from April through October, when nectar-bearing flowers are blooming. Winter sightings near feeders occasionally occur during mild weather.
Male ruby-throated hummingbirds are identified by their fiery red throat patch, iridescent green back and forked tail.
Female rubythroats lack the red patch, sport a blunt tail with white spots.
Immature rubythroats resemble the adult female, but young males have a small red dot
on their throat.
Facts:
- Ruby-throated hummingbirds may migrate 2,000 miles/year.
- Hummingbirds beat their wings 50 to 200 times per second.
- More than 160 plants depend exclusively on hummingbirds for pollination.
- Hummingbirds are one of the only birds that are hunted by insects—the praying mantis.
Our thanks to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission for the wonderful photo and information.