The Rufous Hummingbird breeds farther north than any other hummingbird, nesting in Alaska and migrating southward through the Rocky Mountains — a round trip of up to 3,900 miles. Despite its tiny size, the male is notoriously aggressive, chasing much larger birds from flowers and feeders. The male's flaming orange-red body and gorget make it one of North America's most vivid small birds.
Best time to see a Rufous Hummingbird
The best time to see a Rufous Hummingbird is April–August, when about 68% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 12,992 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Rufous Hummingbird? What bird is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Rufous Hummingbird sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted a Rufous Hummingbird?
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal and know for sure - plus a live map of where it is being spotted near you.