Bird Guide

Allen's Hummingbird vs Rufous Hummingbird

Allen's Hummingbird (Selasphorus sasin)

Allen's Hummingbird

Selasphorus sasin

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Allen's hummingbird is a small bird, with mature adults reaching only 3 to 3.5 in (76 to 89 mm) in length and weighing approximately 2 to 4 grams in weight. They are known for their vibrant colors and energetic behaviors, making them a popular subject for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The male has a green back and forehead, with rust-colored (rufous) flanks, rump, and tail. The male's throat is an iridescent orange-red. The male hummingbirds make use of their elaborate colors to impress the females, which is crucial for mating season.

ID text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0

Photo: Anthony Batista · CC BY 4.0
Rufous Hummingbird (Selasphorus rufus)

Rufous Hummingbird

Selasphorus rufus

Tiny4 gForest

The adult male has a white breast, rufous face, flanks and tail, and an iridescent orange-red throat patch or gorget. Some males have some green on their back and/or crown. The female has green, white, and some iridescent orange feathers in the center of the throat, and a dark tail with white tips and a rufous base. The female is slightly larger than the male. Females and the rare green-backed males are difficult to differentiate from Allen's hummingbird.

ID text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0

Photo: Wendy McCrady · CC BY 4.0

Where you might meet both

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Photos and recordings are credited to their authors under the licence shown. Full profiles: Allen's Hummingbird and Rufous Hummingbird.